Report Abuse and Neglect

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Do you know what abuse looks like?

Abuse takes many forms. It can be physical, financial, verbal, emotional and neglectful. Abuse can come from strangers, caregivers, family members, friends and others.

Signs to look for:

Injuries, bruises, sores or weight loss that happens for no known reason.
A change in mood or personality, such as being afraid around a particular person or place.
Poor hygiene and signs of neglect such as not bathing, wearing dirty clothes, not taking medication and living in an unsafe home.
Money or belongings that go missing or being pressured into giving money and things to someone.
Being yelled at, threatened or made to feel bad or less worthy.

Anyone can be a victim of abuse. Learn more about warning signs for adults.

If you think you or someone you know is being abused or neglected, take action:

Call 1-866-END HARM (1-866-363-4276) for children and adults.
Make an online report to Adult Protective Services (for adults only).
Call or email your DDA case manager. If you do not know who that is click here to find a DDA office and talk with a DDA employee.

End harm

Important: to report a crime, physical or sexual abuse or a life-threatening situation call 911.

Information to give when making a report:

Include as much information as possible when reporting abuse, whether it’s spoken or written, including:

Victim’s name. This is the name and address of the person who you suspect has been harmed and the name of the facility or agency providing their care (if that applies).
Describe what happened and its effect on the person.
Perpetrator name. This is the person(s) who you believe caused the alleged abuse.
Contact information. This includes the name, address and phone numbers of the alleged victim, witnesses and the legal guardian or other decision maker (if the person has one).
Reporter’s information. The name, phone number and address of the person making the report.
History. Include any past allegations of abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment.
Any other information that may be helpful in establishing the extent of the allegations.