Reporting Child Abuse
16 Del. C. § 903 — every person who knows or suspects abuse reports it, immediately by phone when a child is in danger
Everyone. Any person or organization who knows or in good faith suspects child abuse, neglect or human trafficking makes a report to the Department. Calling the police as well does not satisfy the duty.
- Sexual abuse or trafficking where the abuser has access to the child.
- A child's death, or a child with a current physical injury.
- A child needing immediate medical or mental health attention.
- A child with no caregiver, unsupervised, or in immediately hazardous conditions.
Those are reported at once by calling the Department's report line, and other reports may go by phone or the online portal. A person who knows directly may not leave the call to someone who knows less.
A good faith reporter is immune from liability. Failing to report carries a civil penalty of up to $10,000, and up to $50,000 for a later violation.
A particular situation is a question for the Department's report line or a licensed Delaware attorney.
Sources for this section (4)
- 16 Del. C. § 903 — Reports required
- 16 Del. C. § 904 — Nature and content of report; to whom made
- 16 Del. C. § 908 — Immunity from liability, and special reimbursement to safe havens for expenses related to certain babies
- 16 Del. C. § 914 — Penalty for violation
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Delaware attorney.