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Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect - 855 O-H-CHILD

How to Make a Report

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services has launched 855-O-H-CHILD (855-642-4453), an automated telephone directory that will link callers directly to a child welfare or law enforcement office in their county.

Reports can be anonymous.

When making a report, provide:

  • The name, address and age of the child you suspect is being abused or neglected
  • The name and address of the child’s parents or caretakers
  • The name and address (if available) of the suspected abuser
  • The reason you suspect the abuse or neglect
  • Any other information that might be helpful
  • You have the option of giving your name or reporting anonymously. Giving your name can help the investigator clarify information. The agency will not give your name to the person suspected of abusing the child.

Please Note: All of the above information is not needed to make a report. If you are not sure you have enough information to report, always err on the safety of the child. Children services screens all reports to determine if there is enough information to investigate.

What happens after a report is made? 
 
In Ohio, after a report is made,

  1. A child protective services investigator will interview the child, family members & others as deemed appropriate.
  2. The investigator determines if the child is being abused or is at risk for abuse.
  3. The case may be referred to local social service agencies, or to juvenile, family or criminal court.

For additional information, please visit: https://jfs.ohio.gov/ocf/reportchildabuseandneglect.stm