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Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

The Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline is a toll-free number that is answered 24 hours day, 365 days a year. Any person may report suspected child abuse or neglect anonymously; however it is recommended that you identify yourself to the reporter. This information will not be disclosed to the anyone beyond the Department of Children’s Services.

What happens when I make a hotline call?

During any hotline call, you will be asked to answer the following questions:
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The name of the child
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The name of the parent(s)
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The name of the alleged abuser
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Where the child can be located
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Is the child’s life in danger?
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How do you know about the abuse/neglect?
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Did you witness the abuse/neglect?
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Were there other witnesses? If so, how can they be contacted?

The investigator will ask other questions that determine the level of emergency, add further details to the report, and help decide if further investigation is necessary. You will be asked for your information but, unless you are a mandated reporter, you do not have to identify yourself. Children’s Division asks anyone reporting to please consider identifying yourself, for the sole purpose of being able to contact you later in case more information is necessary.

What if I’m not sure it’s abuse or neglect?

Err on the side of over-reporting. You do not need to be certain that child abuse and neglect has occurred before you call, but you do need to have a reasonable suspicion. Before calling, compile of list of information and circumstances that caused your suspicion.

A simple rule to remember is if you have thought “Maybe I should call…” Call the hotline. The investigators are trained to determine if the report could be abuse or neglect. Not every call results in an investigation.

What constitutes child abuse or neglect?

According to Missouri Law, abuse is defined as:

“…any physical injury, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse inflicted on a child other than by accidental means by those responsible for the child’s care, custody, and control, expect that discipline including spanking, administered in a reasonable manner, shall not be constructed as abuse.”

Neglect is defined as:

“…failure to provide, by those responsible for the care, custody, and control of the child, the proper or necessary support, education as required by law, nutritional or medical, surgical, or any other care necessary for the child’s well-being.”

By these definitions, child abuse and neglect can look like:

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Physical abuse
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Verbal abuse
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Sexual abuse
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Emotional abuse
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Exposure to harmful situations, such as domestic violence or drug abuse
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Failing to provide adequate food, clothing, or shelter
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Failing to provide medical care or necessary treatment for injuries
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Failing to provide education or neglecting to enroll a child in school
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Leaving a child unattended or without supervision for an extended period of time
Thank you for helping to keep Missouri’s kids safe from abuse and neglect!

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