The Child Abuse Prevention Council
Child abuse & neglect
comes in many forms
Physical abuse: Injuries to children that are not accidental such as bruises, burns, broken bones, etc.
Physical neglect: Not providing children with enough food, clothing, shelter, medical care, hygiene, supervision, etc.
Sexual abuse: Using a child for the sexual needs of adults: exposing, fondling, intercourse, pornography, sexual stimulation, etc.
Emotional abuse: Attacking a child's self-esteem: constant criticizing, yelling, belittling, insulting, rejecting and withholding love, support & help.
Any of the below acts involving anyone under the age of 18:
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physical abuse
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sexual abuse
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emotional abuse
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neglect
The mandated reporter must only have reasonable suspicion that a child has been mistreated; no evidence or proof is required prior to making a report.
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How to report
By phone: Immediately, or as soon as possible, make a telephone report to child welfare services and/or to a Police or Sheriff's department. In case of emergency call 911.
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Child Welfare Services Ventura County
24-hour hotline (805) 654-3200
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Ventura County Police Department
(805) 339-4400
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Ventura County Sheriff's Department
(805) 654-9511
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In Writing: Within 36 hours, a written report must be sent, faxed, or submitted electronically. To complete a written report please fill out Form 8572 available below or online here.
California
Mandated Reporting Easy Steps
Information & Resources
Safeguards for Mandated Reporters
The Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Act states that the name of the mandated reporter is strictly confidential, although it is provided to investigative parties working on the case.
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As long as a report is filed in good faith, a mandated reporter cannot be held liable in civil or criminal court.
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Failure to Report
Failure to report concerns of child abuse or neglect is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable in California by six months in jail and/or up to a $1000 fine.
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For the complete law and a list of mandated reporters refer to California Penal Codes 11164-11174.3.