Reporting Child Abuse
The Friends of the Children’s Justice Center is a dedicated non-profit organization that raises money and awareness in our community for children and families impacted by abuse. If you suspect a child is being abused, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect them.
How to Report
•Child Protection Hotline: Call 1-855-323-3237 to report child abuse to the State of Utah’s child protection hotline.
•Local Police Department: You can also contact the police department in the city where the alleged crime occurred.
Note: Whether you report the abuse to law enforcement or child protective services, both agencies are mandated to notify each other and will collaboratively investigate the case to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
For more detailed information on reporting abuse and the services provided by the Children’s Justice Center, please visit their website: Children’s Justice Center FAQ.
What to Do if You Suspect Abuse
1. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, it’s better to report your concerns than to stay silent.
2. Document Your Observations: If possible, keep detailed notes of any signs, behaviors, or situations that raise concern. Include dates, times, and descriptions.
3. Report to Authorities:
•Child Protection Hotline: Contact the State of Utah’s child protection hotline at 1-855-323-3237 to report your suspicions.
•Local Law Enforcement: You can also report directly to the police department in the city where the suspected abuse occurred. Law enforcement is required to notify child protective services, and vice versa.
4. Do Not Investigate Yourself: Avoid questioning the child or confronting the suspected abuser. Leave the investigation to the trained professionals.
5. Stay Involved: After reporting, follow up to ensure that the case is being investigated. Continue to support the child if you have ongoing contact with them.
6. Seek Support: If you are emotionally impacted by what you suspect, consider talking to a counselor or professional for support.
Remember, reporting suspected abuse can save a child’s life and is a critical step in ensuring their safety and well-being.
Forms of Abuse
•Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm through actions such as hitting, kicking, burning, or choking.
•Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Causing mental or emotional harm through verbal abuse, manipulation, intimidation, or excessive criticism.
•Sexual Abuse: Any form of non-consensual sexual contact, exploitation, or exposure to sexual situations.
•Neglect: Failing to provide for a child’s basic needs, including food, shelter, medical care, education, and emotional support.
•Verbal Abuse: Using words to insult, belittle, or threaten someone, causing emotional harm.
•Digital/Online Abuse: Using technology to harass, stalk, or intimidate someone, including cyberbullying, non-consensual sharing of images, or controlling online activities.