Child Protection

To report child abuse or neglect: in Mesa County (970) 242-1211 

All calls are confidential and your privacy is protected by Colorado State Law 

24 hours a day/7 days a week

Make the call- there is no right or wrong answers

Consider the possibility of neglect when a child:

• Lacks needed medical or dental care
  
  
• Is frequently absent from school
  
  
• Begs for or steals food or money
  
  
• Lacks sufficient clothing for the weather
  
  
• States that there is no one home to provide care
  
  
• Lacks adult supervision, abandonment
  
  
• Shunned by peers

Consider the possibility of abuse when a child:

• Discloses maltreatment
  
  
• Is reluctant to be around a particular person
  
  
• Shows sudden changes in behavior or school performance
  
  
• Has unexplained bruises or injuries
  
  
• Reluctant to change clothes
  
  
• Complains or soreness, moves uncomfortably
  
  
• Unexplained injuries/wounds/bruises
  
  

Questions to Consider when Calling

• Names, Address, Phone, grade, gender, school
  
  
• Explain the danger/harm & complicating risks
  
  
• Child Info-(tell us about the child/ren)
  
  
• What are the family supports or community resources
  
  
• Protective behaviors of parent or caregiver
  
  
• The culture within the child's home
  
  
• What have you done to intervene?
  
  
• What actions do you want Child Protection to take?
  
  

Signs of Abuse or Neglect

• Emotional Abuse: Constant criticism, threats, or rejection, as well as withholding love, support, or guidance.
  
  
• Physical Abuse: Non-accidental physical injury (ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or death) inflicted by a parent or caregiver.
  
  
• Sexual Abuse: Fondling a child’s genitals,penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent exposure, and exploitation through prostitution or pornography.
  
  
• Neglect: Failure of a parent, guardian, or other caregiver to provide for a child’s basic needs.
  
  
• Institutional Abuse: Maltreatment caused by employees of an institution where the child resides.