About Child Abuse

More than 3 million reports of child abuse are made in the US yearly. Over 1 million children are victims of child abuse and neglect each year, according to state child protective service agencies. Many victims don’t receive help because they are not reported to the system. These abused and neglected children span all ages, races, religions and socio-economic backgrounds. Child maltreatment includes actions that result in imminent risk of serious harm, death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation of a child under age 18 by a parent or caretaker.

How to Report Suspected Child Abuse

Florida State Statutes requires individuals to report suspected child abuse to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) Hotline.

The identity of an individual making a report is confidential and may be disclosed only by order of the court or to a law enforcement officer for investigation purposes. Persons acting in good faith who report or assist in an investigation are immune from civil or criminal liability. It is important to remember that the person reporting abuse is not responsible for determining if the circumstances meet the statutory definition of abuse. That is the role of law enforcement and DCF.

You’ll need the following information:

•Child’s name, age, address
•Primary caretaker’s name, address
•Physical indicators observed
•Behavioral indicators observed
•Your name* and relationship, association, or involvement

(*You may report anonymously)