 | Fewer than 1 in 5 sexual assaults on children are | |
| reported to law enforcement officials (20% of female and 12% of male victims). | ||
| Child sex abusers are often known as "pillars of the | |
| community" and "wonderful with children." | ||
| Most child sex offenders are known to their | |
| victims, either as a family member or close acquaintance. | ||
| 1 in 3 girls, 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused | |
| before age 18. |
- You are required by law to report any
suspicion of child abuse. - You may report anonymously.
- You cannot be retaliated against if you
report in good faith.
Report to
- Local law enforcement
- Texas child abuse hotline: 1-800-252-5400
- TX DFPS website; click on "hotlines"
Get more information from the
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
| Let your child know it's okay to say "no" to someone, | |
| even an adult, even a loved one, in a situation that doesn't seem right. | ||
| Ask your child what happened while you were away. | |
| Believe your child. | |
| Do not blame your child. | |
| Reassure your child of your love. | |
| Create an atmosphere that encourages him/her to | |
| freely discuss sexual matters with you. | ||
| Teach your young child how to dial your phone | |
| number. | ||
| Don't scare your child. Instead, teach them to be self- | |
| confident, considerate and assertive. |
immediate danger, call 911 for help.
P.O. Box 122
Abilene, TX 79604
Crime Victim Crisis Hotline 325-677-7895