Mandated Reporters

Know the Law: Mandated Reporters

Any person who knows or has reasonable cause to believe that a child is dependent, neglected, or abused shall immediately cause an oral or written report to be made to a local law enforcement agency or the Kentucky State Police; the cabinet or its designated representative, the Commonwealth’s attorney or the county attorney, by telephone or otherwise.

A supervisor who receives, from an employee, a report of suspected dependency, neglect or abuse shall promptly make a report with the employee to the proper authorities for investigation.

If the cabinet receives a report of abuse or neglect allegedly committed by a person other than a parent, guardian or person exercising custodial control or supervision, the cabinet shall refer the matter to the Commonwealth’s attorney or the county attorney and the local law enforcement agency or the Kentucky State Police.

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Resources

The cabinet upon request shall receive from any agency of the state or any other agency, institution or facility providing services to the child or his family, such cooperation, assistance and information as will enable the cabinet to fulfill its responsibilities under KRS 620.030, 620.040, and 620.050.

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Duty to report dependency, neglect, abuse, or human trafficking KRS 620.030

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Can I be sued for reporting my suspicions?

NO!

If “acting in good faith¹”, individuals making a child abuse report receive both civil and criminal immunity from prosecution [KRS 620.050].

620.050 Immunity for good faith actions or reports

Exceptions:

Anyone acting upon reasonable cause in the making of a report or acting under KRS 620.030 in good faith shall have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, that might otherwise be incurred or imposed.  Any such participant shall have the same immunity with respect to participation in any judicial proceeding resulting from such a report or action.  However, any person who knowingly makes a false report and does so with malice shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.

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Duty to report dependency, neglect, abuse, or human trafficking KRS 620.030

Immunity for good-faith actions or reports  KRS 620.050

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