Article Structure
The DCF-136 form, formally titled "Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect," serves a critical function in the child protection system in Connecticut. Mandated reporters, which include a variety of professionals such as teachers, healthcare providers, and law enforcement officers, are required to complete this form within 48 hours after making an oral report of suspected child abuse or neglect. The form collects essential information, including the child's demographics, the nature of the suspected abuse or neglect, and details about the alleged perpetrator. Though primarily utilized by mandated reporters, any individual with reasonable cause to suspect child abuse can initiate a report. Completing the DCF-136 is not just a procedural formality; it plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Failure to report can have serious implications, including potential legal consequences. Understanding how to properly fill out this form can facilitate timely investigations by child protective services and allow for appropriate interventions when necessary.
Dcf 136 Example
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REPORT OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT |
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Careline |
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05/2015 (Rev.) |
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See the reverse side of this form for a summary of Connecticut law concerning the protection of children.
Please Print or Type
Child’s Name |
☐ M |
Age Or DOB |
Race: |
☐ American Indian or Alaskan Native |
☐ Hispanic |
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☐ F |
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☐ Asian/Pacific Islander |
☐ White (not of Hispanic origin) |
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☐ Black/African American (not of |
☐ Unknown |
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Hispanic Origin) |
☐ Other: |
Child’s Address |
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Name Of Parents Or Other Person Responsible For Child’s Care |
Address |
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Phone Number |
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Name Of Careline Worker To Whom Oral Report Was Made |
Date Of Oral Report |
Date And Time Of Suspected Abuse/Neglect |
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Name Of Suspected Perpetrator, If Known |
Address And Phone Number, If Known |
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Relationship To Child |
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Nature And Extent Of Injury(ies), Maltreatment Or Neglect |
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Describe The Circumstances Under Which The Injury(ies), Maltreatment Or Neglect Came To Be Known
Describe the Reasons Such Persons(s) Are Suspected of Causing Such Injuries, Maltreatment of Neglect
Information Concerning Any Previous Injury(ies), Maltreatment Or Neglect Of The Child Or His/Her Siblings
Information Concerning Any Prior Cases(s) In Which The Person(s) Have Been Suspected Of Causing An Injury(ies), Maltreatment Or Neglect Of A Child
List Names And Ages Of Siblings, If Known
What Action, If Any, Has Been Taken To Treat, Provide Shelter Or Otherwise Assist The Child?
REPORTER SECTION
Reporter’s Name:
Agency Name:
Phone Number:
Agency Address:
City:
Reporter’s Signature
Reporter’s Race
☐American Indian or Alaskan Native
☐Asian/Pacific Islander
☐Black/African American (not of Hispanic Origin)
☐Hispanic (any race)
☐White (not of Hispanic origin)
☐Prefer Not to Answer
☐Other:
Position |
Date |
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WHITE COPY: TO DCF AREA OFFICE (SEE BELOW) IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL SPACE, YOU MAY ATTACH MORE DOCUMENTATION
Bridgeport |
Danbury |
Hartford |
Manchester |
Norwalk |
100 Fairfield Avenue |
131 West Street |
250 Hamilton Street |
364 West Middle Turnpike |
761 Main Avenue, |
Bridgeport, CT 06604 |
Danbury, CT 06810 |
Hartford, CT 06106 |
Manchester, CT 06040 |
Norwalk, CT 06851 |
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Meriden |
Middletown |
Milford |
New Britain |
New Haven |
One West Main Street |
2081 South Main Street |
38 Wellington Road |
One Grove Street, 4th Floor |
One Long Wharf Drive |
Meriden CT 06451 |
Middletown, CT 06457 |
Milford, CT 06461 |
New Britain, CT 06053 |
New Haven, CT 06511 |
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Norwich |
Torrington |
Waterbury |
Willimantic |
Special Investigations Unit |
Two Courthouse Square |
62 Commercial Blvd |
395 West Main Street |
322 Main Street |
505 Hudson Street, 7th Floor |
Norwich, CT 06360 |
Torrington, CT 06790 |
Waterbury, CT 06702 |
Willimantic, CT 06226 |
Hartford, CT 06106 |
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SUMMARY OF LEGAL REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING CHILD ABUSE/ NEGLECT
PUBLIC POLICY OF THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT (C.G.S.
To protect children whose health and welfare may be adversely affected through injury and neglect; to strengthen the family and to make the home safe for children by enhancing the parental capacity for good child care; to provide a temporary or permanent nurturing and safe environment for children when necessary; and for these purposes to require the reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect, investigation of such reports by a social agency, and provision of services, where needed, to such child and family.
WHO IS MANDATED TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT?
Child Advocate and OCA Employees |
Mental Health Professionals |
Chiropractors |
Optometrists |
Coaches and Directors of a Private Youth Sports, |
Persons Paid to Care for Children |
Organization or Team |
Persons who Provide Services to |
Coaches and Athletic Directors of Youth Athletics |
and have Regular Contact with |
Dental Hygienists |
Students |
Dentists |
Pharmacists |
Department of Children and Families Employees |
Physical Therapists |
Domestic Violence Counselors |
Physician Assistants |
Office of Early Childhood Employees and Department |
Podiatrists |
of Public health Employees who are Responsible |
Police Officers |
for Licensing Day Cares and Camps |
Probation Officers (Juvenile or Adult) |
Family Relations Counselors (Judicial Dept.) |
Psychologists |
Family Rel. Counselor Trainees (Judicial Dept.) |
Public or Private Institution of Higher |
Family Services Supervisors (Judicial Dept.) |
Education Administrators, Faculty, |
Licensed Foster Parents |
Staff, Athletic Directors, Athletic |
Licensed Marital and Family Therapists |
Coaches and Athletic Trainers |
Licensed or Unlicensed Interns at Any Hospital |
Registered Nurses |
Licensed or Unlicensed Resident Physicians |
School Administrators |
Licensed Physicians |
School Coaches |
Licensed Practical Nurses |
School Guidance Counselors |
Licensed Professional Counselors |
School Paraprofessionals |
Licensed Surgeons |
School Superintendents |
Licensed/Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors |
School Teachers |
Licensed/Certified Emergency Medical Services Providers |
Sexual Assault Counselors |
Medical Examiners |
Social Workers |
Members of the Clergy |
Substitute Teachers |
DO THOSE MANDATED TO REPORT INCUR LIABILITY?
No. Any person, institution or agency which, in good faith, makes or does not make a report, shall be immune from any civil or criminal liability provided such person did not perpetrate or cause such abuse or neglect.
IS THERE A PENALTY FOR NOT REPORTING?
Yes. Any person required to report who fails to do so may be prosecuted for a Class A misdemeanor and may be required to participate in an educational and training program. Any person who intentionally and unreasonably interferes with or prevents a report may be prosecuted for a Class D felony.
IS THERE A PENALTY FOR MAKING A FALSE REPORT?
Yes. Any person who knowingly makes a false report of child abuse or neglect may be fined not more than $2,000 or imprisoned for not more than one year or both. The identity of such person shall be disclosed to the appropriate law enforcement agency and to the alleged perpetrator of the abuse.
WHAT ARE THE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS?
An oral report shall be made by a mandated reporter by telephone or in person to the DCF Careline or to a law enforcement agency as soon as practicable, but not later than 12 hours after the mandated reporter has reasonable cause to suspect or believe that a child has been abused or neglected or placed in imminent risk of serious harm. If a law enforcement agency receives an oral report, it shall immediately notify Careline. Oral reports to the Careline shall be recorded.
Within 48 hours of making an oral report, a mandated reporter shall submit a written report to the DCF Careline on the
When a mandated reporter is a member of the staff of a public or private institution or facility that provides care for children or a public or private school, the reporter shall also submit a copy of the written report to the person in charge of such institution, school or facility or the person's designee.
DCF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT CARELINE:
STATUTORY REFERENCES:
DEFINITIONS OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT
Abused Child: Any child who has a
Neglected Child: Any child who has been abandoned or is being denied proper care and attention, physically, educationally, emotionally, or morally or is being permitted to live under conditions, circumstances or associations injurious to his or her
Exception: The treatment of any child by an accredited Christian Science practitioner shall not by itself constitute neglect or maltreatment.
CHILD UNDER AGE 13 WITH VENEREAL DISEASE: A physician or facility must report to Careline upon the consultation, examination or treatment for venereal disease of any child who has not reached his or her 13th birthday.
DO PRIVATE CITIZENS HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY FOR REPORTING?
Yes. Any person having reasonable cause to suspect or believe that any child under the age of 18 is in danger of being abused or has been abused or neglected may cause a written or oral report to be made to the Careline or a law enforcement agency. Any person making the report in good faith is immune from any liability, civil or criminal. However, the person is subject to the penalty for making a false claim.
WHAT IS THE AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES (DCF)?
All child protective services in Connecticut are the responsibility of the Department of Children and Families.
Upon the receipt of a report of child abuse or neglect, the Careline shall cause the report to be classified, evaluated immediately and forwarded to the appropriate Area Office for the commencement of an investigation or for the provision of services within timelines specified by statute and policy.
If an investigation produces evidence of child abuse or neglect, DCF shall take such measures as it deems necessary to protect the child, and any other children similarly situated, including,
but not limited to, immediate notification to the appropriate law enforcement agency, and the removal of the child from his or her home with or without the parents’ consent consistent with
state law.
If DCF has probable cause to believe that the child or any other child in the household is at
imminent risk of physical harm from the surroundings, and that immediate removal from such surroundings is necessary to ensure the child’s safety, the Commissioner or designee shall
authorize any employee of DCF or any law enforcement officer to remove the child and any other child similarly situated from such surroundings without the consent of the child’s parent or
guardian. The removal of a child shall not exceed 96 hours. If the child is not returned home within such
WHAT MEANS ARE AVAILABLE FOR REMOVING A CHILD FROM HIS OR HER HOME?
to the detection of child abuse or neglect and to provide necessary medical care with or without the consent of such child’s parents or guardian or other person responsible for the child’s care, provided the physician has made reasonable attempts to (1) advise such child’s parents or guardian or other person responsible for the child’s care that the physician suspects the child has been abused or neglected, and (2) obtain consent of such child’s parents or guardian or other person responsible for the child’s care. In addition, such
physician may take or cause to be taken photographs of the area of trauma visible on a child who is the subject of such report without the consent of such child’s parent’s or guardian or other person responsible for the child’s care. All such photographs or copies thereof shall be sent to the local police department and the Department of Children and Families.
Bench order of temporary custody – Whenever any person is arrested and charged with an offense under Section
amended, the victim of which offense was a minor residing with the defendant, any judge of the Superior Court may, if it appears that the child’s condition or circumstances surrounding the case so require, issue an order to the Commissioner of the Department of Children and Families to assume immediate custody of such child and, if the circumstances so require, any other children residing with the defendant and to proceed thereon as in other cases.
WHAT IS THE CENTRAL REGISTRY OF PERPETRATORS OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT? The Department of Children and Families maintains a registry of persons who have been substantiated as responsible for child abuse or neglect and pose a risk to the health safety or
Form Characteristics
| Fact Name | Fact Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose of DCF-136 | The DCF-136 form is designed for mandated reporters to officially document and report suspected child abuse or neglect in Connecticut. |
| Submission Timeline | Mandated reporters must submit the DCF-136 form within 48 hours after making an oral report to ensure timely follow-up and investigation. |
| Who Can Report? | A wide range of professionals, including teachers, health care providers, and law enforcement officers, are mandated reporters under Connecticut law. |
| Protection for Reporters | Individuals who report in good faith are granted immunity from civil or criminal liability, as long as they are not the perpetrators of the abuse. |
| Penalty for Non-reporting | Failure to report suspected abuse can lead to criminal charges, classified as a Class A misdemeanor, along with required educational programs. |
| False Reporting Consequences | Knowingly making a false report of child abuse can result in a fine of up to $2,000 or imprisonment for up to one year. |
| Governing Law | The reporting and investigation of child abuse is governed by Connecticut General Statutes, C.G.S. §17a-101 et seq. |
Guidelines on Utilizing Dcf 136
After making an oral report about suspected child abuse or neglect, a mandated reporter must complete the DCF-136 form within 48 hours. This form is a written account of the information shared during the oral report. It is crucial for proper documentation and aids in the investigation process. Below are the steps to correctly fill out the form.
- Begin by entering the child's name, age, and race in the designated fields.
- Provide the child's address, along with the names and contact information of the parents or guardians responsible for the child's care.
- Record the name of the Careline worker you spoke with, along with the date and time of that conversation.
- Specify the date and time when the suspected abuse or neglect occurred.
- If known, write the name, address, phone number, and relationship of the suspected perpetrator.
- Describe the nature and extent of the child's injuries or neglect in detail.
- Explain the circumstances under which you became aware of the suspected abuse or neglect.
- Provide reasons why the individuals are suspected of causing the injuries or maltreatment.
- Include any information regarding previous injuries, maltreatment, or neglect of the child or their siblings.
- List any prior cases involving the suspected perpetrator.
- Detail the names and ages of siblings, if applicable.
- If action has been taken to assist the child (such as treatment or shelter), describe it here.
- In the reporter section, fill in your name, agency, contact information, and address.
- Sign the form and indicate your race as specified on the form.
- To finalize, send the completed form to the appropriate DCF Area Office as listed on the form.
Ensure that all sections are filled out clearly and accurately. If more space is needed, additional documentation can be attached. Sending the report promptly is essential to ensure the child receives the necessary support and care.
What You Should Know About This Form
What is the DCF-136 form?
The DCF-136 form, also known as the Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect, is a vital document in Connecticut used to report instances of suspected child abuse or neglect. Mandated reporters must fill out and submit this form to a designated Area Office within forty-eight hours of making an oral report of abuse or neglect. The form collects essential information about the child, the suspected incident, and the identified individuals involved.
Who is required to report using the DCF-136 form?
Mandated reporters include a broad range of professionals such as mental health professionals, educators, health care providers, law enforcement officers, and various other caregivers. These individuals are legally obligated to report suspected child abuse or neglect when they have reasonable cause to believe that a child is in danger. While private citizens are encouraged to report any concerns, the DCF-136 specifically applies to those designated as mandated reporters.
What steps should I take to report suspected abuse or neglect?
First, make an oral report by calling the DCF Careline at 1-800-842-2288 or reporting to a law enforcement agency as soon as you suspect abuse or neglect. This should be done promptly, ideally within 12 hours of suspicion. After making the initial report, complete the DCF-136 form and submit it to the appropriate Area Office within 48 hours. It's also important to report to your institution or facility if you are employed there.
What happens after I submit the DCF-136 form?
Once the Department of Children and Families (DCF) receives your report, they classify and evaluate the information. If necessary, they will initiate an investigation to determine if abuse or neglect has occurred. DCF may also provide support services to the child and family, or, if the child is in imminent danger, take protective measures, which could include the temporary removal of the child from their home.
Is there any legal protection for those who report suspected child abuse?
Yes, individuals who make reports in good faith are generally protected from civil or criminal liabilities under Connecticut law. This immunity applies as long as the reporter has not caused or perpetrated the abuse or neglect themselves. However, making a false report can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and possible imprisonment.
What are the penalties for failing to report?
Failure to report child abuse or neglect when legally required can result in prosecution. It is considered a Class A misdemeanor, which may entail participation in educational programs. Additionally, anyone who intentionally prevents a report may face gravely serious charges, potentially classified as a Class D felony.
How can I ensure my report remains confidential?
When you report suspected abuse or neglect using the DCF-136 form, your identity as the reporter is typically shielded. However, in cases where a false report is made, your identity may be disclosed to appropriate law enforcement. When making reports in good faith, there are protections to keep your information confidential, ensuring your right to report safely.
Common mistakes
When filling out the DCF-136 form, people often encounter common pitfalls that can hinder the reporting process. One significant mistake is failing to include all required information. Each section of the form has specific fields that must be completed. Missing or incomplete information can delay the processing of the report and possibly put a child at further risk.
Another frequent error is providing vague descriptions of the suspected abuse or neglect. It’s crucial to be as detailed as possible when explaining the circumstances surrounding the situation. Include specific instances of observed behavior, injuries, or conditions. Clear and concise information enables authorities to respond appropriately and promptly.
Some individuals mistakenly underestimate the importance of including previous incidents. Reports of any prior injuries, maltreatment, or neglect are vital in understanding the context of the current situation. Not mentioning previous cases can lead to inadequate assessments and missed opportunities for intervention.
Another common mistake is not being clear about the relationship between the child and the suspected perpetrator. This detail is essential for investigators to understand potential dynamics and risks. It’s important to explicitly state how the suspect is connected to the child, whether they are a family member, caregiver, or someone else in their life.
Omitting the reporter's information is another error that can have significant consequences. The form must include the name, agency, and contact details of the reporter. This information is crucial for follow-up and further investigation, and anonymity doesn’t exempt individuals from providing their contact details.
Many people also overlook the fact that they should submit the form within 48 hours of making an oral report. Timeliness is critical in such cases. Failing to meet this deadline can negatively impact the effectiveness of the investigation. Additionally, any urgent needs for the child may go unaddressed if the report is delayed.
Moreover, some individuals mistakenly believe that they can provide a report without having clear evidence of abuse. Even a reasonable suspicion is enough to warrant a report. It’s better to air concerns than to remain silent, as reporting can lead to protective interventions for the child.
Lastly, neglecting to attach supporting documentation can also weaken a report. If there are photographs, medical records, or other documents that support the claims being made, they should be included. Additional documentation can provide critical context and evidence, equipping investigators with the necessary tools to address the situation effectively.
Documents used along the form
When submitting the DCF-136 form, "Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect," several other documents and forms are often required or beneficial for a comprehensive approach to reporting and managing such sensitive cases. Each of these forms serves a unique purpose, helping to provide further context and efficiency in addressing the needs of affected children.
- DCF-137: This document serves as a written report of a suspected child abuse or neglect incident, capturing additional details that may not fit on the DCF-136 form. It can include more specific information about the child and relevant circumstances.
- DCF Referral Form: Used to formally refer a case to the Department of Children and Families for additional investigation or intervention. This form provides essential background information necessary for the case management team.
- DCF-138: Known as the "Release of Information" form, it allows for the sharing of confidential information between agencies involved in a child’s case, ensuring that relevant parties have access to vital information needed for effective intervention.
- Victim Impact Statement: Often collected from the child or family affected, this statement expresses the emotional and psychological impact of the abuse or neglect. It can be used during investigations or legal proceedings.
- Medical Report: A medical evaluation is crucial when physical abuse is suspected. Physicians can provide documentation detailing any injuries or conditions that support the allegations made in the DCF-136.
- Court Petitions: In cases leading to legal action, petitions may need to be filed to request protective orders or custody arrangements. These documents specify the legal requests of the parties involved.
- Safety Plan: This plan outlines the steps to ensure the immediate safety and well-being of the child involved, detailing how to mitigate risks while the investigation is underway.
- Case Management Plan: Once investigations are completed, this form helps outline the support services needed for the child and family. It serves as a roadmap for intervention and monitoring.
- Incident Report**: Often created by schools, childcare facilities, or other organizations, this report formally documents any incidents related to suspected abuse or neglect. It serves as a record of observations and actions taken by staff.
While the DCF-136 form acts as a primary reporting mechanism for suspected child abuse or neglect, these additional forms provide critical support, enhancing the response and care provided to affected children and families. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring that all necessary information is collected and communicated effectively among involved parties.
Similar forms
The DCF-136 form, which is used to report suspected child abuse or neglect, is similar to several other documents that serve related purposes in the realm of child protection and welfare. Below is a list of documents that share common features or objectives:
- DCF-137 - Report of Suspected Child Sexual Abuse: Like the DCF-136, this form is submitted by mandated reporters to report suspected child sexual abuse. It contains similar sections regarding the reporter's details and information about the child and suspected perpetrator.
- DCF-138 - Report of Suspected Abuse of Adults with Disabilities: This document mirrors the structure of the DCF-136, catering to instances involving adults with disabilities. It requires details on suspected abuse and encompasses similar reporting responsibilities.
- DCF-149 - Report of Child Neglect: The DCF-149 addresses cases of child neglect specifically. While it focuses solely on neglect, the reporting format and required details are akin to those found in the DCF-136.
- Incident Report for Child Care Facilities: Child care facilities typically have an incident report form, which outlines incidents related to child welfare. These forms also require specific information about the child, incident details, and involved parties, similar to the DCF-136.
- School Incident Report: Schools often utilize incident report forms that document occurrences involving students. Similar to the DCF-136, these reports include details about the student, nature of the incident, and actions taken.
- Mandated Reporter Training Certificate: This document serves to prove that individuals have completed required training on reporting child abuse. It includes information on the training session, the trainee's identity, and their obligation to report, just like the DCF-136 highlights a reporter's responsibilities.
- Child Protective Services Referral Form: This document facilitates referrals to child protective services and includes relevant information akin to what is found on the DCF-136. Both forms aim to ensure child safety and outline essential reporting information.
- Medical Report Form for Child Victims: When a child is evaluated for potential abuse, a medical report form is generated, documenting findings. The focus on injuries and the child's details creates a parallel with the DCF-136's emphasis on reporting suspected abuse or neglect.
Each of these documents plays a crucial role in safeguarding children and ensuring that suspected cases of abuse or neglect are appropriately reported and investigated.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the DCF 136 form, here are five important do's and don'ts:
- Do: Provide clear and accurate information about the child and the suspected abuse or neglect.
- Do: Submit the form within 48 hours of making an oral report to the DCF Careline.
- Do: Include all known details about the suspected perpetrator and their relationship to the child.
- Do: Describe the circumstances surrounding the suspected abuse or neglect in detail.
- Do: Keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
And here are five things to avoid:
- Don't: Leave out important information or skip any sections of the form.
- Don't: Provide vague descriptions or assumptions about the situation.
- Don't: Include personal opinions or judgments about the family involved.
- Don't: Wait too long to submit the report after making the initial oral report.
- Don't: Forget to sign and date the form before submitting it.
Misconceptions
Understanding the DCF-136 form is essential for mandated reporters concerned about child safety. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion about its process and implications. Here are ten common misconceptions clarified:
- The DCF-136 form is optional for mandated reporters. Many believe that submitting the DCF-136 form is a choice. In reality, mandated reporters are required to file this form within 48 hours after making an oral report.
- Only professionals can report child abuse. Some think that only licensed professionals can report suspected abuse or neglect. Anyone who suspects a child is being harmed—as long as they have a reasonable belief—can make a report.
- Submitting a report equals a judgment on the family. Reporting suspected abuse does not imply guilt. It is about ensuring children's safety, allowing professionals to investigate and determine the facts.
- Mistakes in the report can lead to punishment. There is a fear of repercussions for incorrect snspecificinformation. However, good faith reports are protected. People face penalties only for knowingly false reports.
- The Careline is only for emergencies. People often think that the Careline is only for urgent situations. While urgent cases are critical, the Careline is available for any suspected abuse concerns at any time.
- Once a report is made, my involvement is over. Many assume their role ends after the report. In truth, follow-up questions may arise during investigations, and they may be asked to provide additional information.
- The DCF-136 is only useful for physical abuse cases. Some believe this form's usage is limited to physical abuse. The DCF-136 can report a wide range of concerning behaviors, including emotional maltreatment and neglect.
- Children must be in immediate danger to report. Another misconception is that abuse or neglect must be life-threatening before a report becomes necessary. If there is reasonable cause to suspect any abuse or neglect, it is important to report it.
- I can report anonymously, but my identity will be revealed later. While an anonymous report can be made, some assume that their identity will be unveiled inevitably. In most cases, reporters' identities are protected unless it becomes relevant in legal proceedings.
- Filing the DCF-136 guarantees action will be taken. Lastly, many reporters think that their submission will immediately result in intervention. While reports warrant investigation, the amount of intervention depends on the findings during the inquiry.
Key takeaways
Filling out and using the DCF-136 form is a crucial step in reporting suspected child abuse or neglect. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:
- The form must be submitted within 48 hours of making an oral report.
- Mandated reporters should provide thorough information about the child and the suspected abuse or neglect.
- Complete each section of the form, including the child’s name, address, and details of the suspected perpetrator.
- Ensure the oral report was made to the DCF Careline or a law enforcement agency before submitting the form.
- Attach additional documentation if more space is needed for details.
- The DCF Careline, reachable at 1-800-842-2288, offers immediate assistance for any reporting issues.
- Remember, failing to report suspected abuse can result in criminal charges.
- Protect the identity of everyone involved to maintain confidentiality and safety.
- A good faith report provides immunity from liability unless the reporter caused the abuse or neglect.
Take these steps seriously. The process is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of children in vulnerable situations.
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