Child Abuse, Neglect, and Dependency

The Child Protective Services Program is mandated by statute, which means there are state laws that declare a child’s right to be free from abuse and neglect. These laws are called the Kentucky Unified Juvenile Code and are contained in KRS Chapters 600 to 645. The Code requires the reporting of neglect; physical, sexual, or emotional abuse; and dependency of children whether it occurs in the home, the school, or other community settings. It requires that these reports be assessed and investigated, and that social services be provided to children found to be experiencing maltreatment. Inherent in the Code are two basic principles: a child’s fundamental right to be safe and nurtured, and a child’s basic right to be reared by his/her own parents, whenever possible. Also included in the body of the Code are provisions for interviewing children who are the alleged victims.

Reporting Child Abuse

If the neglect or abuse is caused by the child’s parents, guardian, or other persons who have the permanent or temporary care, custody, or responsibility for the supervision of the child, school personnel shall call the Department for Social Services—Child-Abuse Hotline (595-4550)—immediately and report the incident and the name, address, and other pertinent information as requested by Hotline personnel.

If you are unable to reach someone at the CPS Hotline, then call the Crimes Against Children Unit (CACU) of the Louisville Police Department (574-2465).

Duty to Report Child Abuse

Who Must Report

The law states that it is the duty of anyone who has reasonable cause to believe that a child is dependent, abused, or neglected to report this information.

Immunity

Anyone acting upon reasonable cause in the making of a report or acting under KRS 620.030 to KRS 620.050 in good faith shall have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, that might otherwise be incurred or imposed.

Penalty for Failure to Report

Failure to report child abuse or neglect is a Class B misdemeanor and can result in criminal charges.

Procedures for Child-Abuse Reporting

• Call the Child-Abuse Hotline, 595-4550. If you are unable to reach someone at the Child-Abuse Hotline, call the Crimes Against Children Unit (CACU) of the Louisville Police Department (574-2465).
• The report must be made as soon as the abuse, neglect, or dependency is suspected.
• Immediately inform the counselor or principal of your school.

Remember:

• Do not delay your report to further investigate suspected abuse or neglect.
• Do not inform the person or persons suspected of abuse or neglect of the allegation made against them or that you have called in a report to the CPS Hotline.
• Do not mark, write, or otherwise alter any writings, photos, pictures, or other tangible information that is related to the suspected abuse or neglect.
• Everyone is responsible for reporting abuse, neglect, or dependency.