How To Report Child Abuse

Anytime there is an allegation of abuse, it needs to be reported and investigated by the proper authorities. A report is the statement that you have knowledge of or reasonable cause to suspect someone has been abused or neglected. Any case of suspected abuse or neglect must be reported, even if the event occurred in the past.

What info do I need to make a report?

• The name and address of the child
• The age of the child
• The name and address of the parents or caretakers
• The name of the person you suspect is abusing or neglecting the child and the address if available
• The reason you suspect the child is being abused and neglected
• Any other information which may be helpful to the investigation

You can either provide your name or report anonymously. It’s up to you. But giving your name can help the investigator clarify information. Your name will not be given to the person suspected of abusing the child.

Please Note: You don’t need all of this information to make a report. If you’re not sure you have enough info to report, err on the safety of the child and call the toll-free Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting line.

Safe Haven

Northern Plains Children’s Advocacy Center is a designated Baby Safe Haven location under North Dakota law.

If you are unable to safely care for your baby, North Dakota law provides a safe option to surrender an unharmed infant under one year of age at an approved Safe Haven location. The infant must be given to an on-duty staff member at the approved location for the protections of the Safe Haven law to apply.

If you are considering Safe Haven, you do not have to face this alone. You can contact us for information and support.

Safe Haven Hotline:

available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.