Ind. Law Requires Citizens To Report Child Abuse

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - In the wake of the scandal at Penn State University, the Indiana Department of Child Services is reminding Hoosiers that it is Indiana law to report child abuse.

 

IDCS Director James Payne sent out an opinion piece to news outlets Monday stating anyone who knows or suspects a child is being abused or neglected has a legal duty to report it to the department or law enforcement.

 

“It is not enough to tell someone about a suspicion, belief or knowledge,” Payne’s letter said. “Even though DCS receives approximately 150,000 hotline calls a year, our staff would rather receive multiple reports by different individuals about the same incident or allegation than to receive no report at all.”

 

Abuse can be reported by calling the Indian Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-800-5556.

More from Local News

Events

Hamilton Co. Public Health: Avoid Contact with Whitewater, Great Miami Rivers

Raw sewage discharge is currently affecting the Whitewater River in Connersville

BCEF Board Elects Bailie

Bailie brings a strong background in finance and deep community involvement to BCEF

RCCF Announces First Round of Fire Readiness and Resilience Grants

Five volunteer fire departments are receiving funding to address equipment and safety needs.

Local Sports Report - August 20, 2026

There was plenty of action in multiple sports on Thursday night

LHS Swimming Announces Partnership with Cincinnati Marlins

The partnership will expand swimming opportunities in the community.

Local Sports Report - August 19, 2026

Soccer, volleyball and cross country results

On Air

Chelsie playing
Carrie Underwood - See You Again

Fox News Fox News National Newscast 7:59
Mark Chesnutt Blame It On Texas 7:56
Miranda Lambert Only Prettier 7:49
Elvie Shane My Boy 7:46