Reporting suspected child abuse or neglect may be the best thing you can do to help a child and a family. If you are a mandated reporter, it is also required by federal and state law.
Notice the word “suspected” above. An investigation of abuse or neglect is based on a reasonable suspicion that a child may be being hurt. It is not based on proof, nor on your own investigation. A reasonable suspicion gives a child protective services investigator a place to start.
Below is the telephone number to make reports in Mendocino County and links to more information about mandated reporting. Regardless of whether you are a mandated reporter or not the goal is to get help so the child will be safe.