Mandated Reporting

Step 1: By Phone: Immediately, or as soon as possible, make a telephone report to child welfare services and/or child welfare services:

• Child Welfare Services (209) 558-3665 
• Turlock Police Department (209) 668-5550 or 911,
• Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department (209) 668-5550 or 911

Step 2: Download and complete the Suspected Child Abuse Report (Form 8572)

Step 3: Within 36 hours, the Suspected Child Abuse Report (Form 8572) must be sent, faxed, or submitted electronically: Fax (209) 558-3268, email cws_er_intake@stancounty.com

Any of the below acts involving anyone under the age of 18:

• Physical Abuse
• Sexual Abuse
• Emotional Abuse
• Neglect

The mandated reporter must only have a REASONABLE SUSPICION that a child has been mistreated; no evidence or proof is required prior to making a report. The case will be further investigated by law enforcement and/or child welfare services.

• Safeguards for Mandated Reporters:
  • The Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) states that the name of the mandated reporter is strictly confidential, although it is provided to investigative parties working on the case.
  • Under state law, mandated reporters cannot be held liable in civil and criminal court when reporting as required; however, under federal law mandated reporters only have immunity for reports made in good faith.
• Failure to Report:
  • Failure to report concerns of child abuse or neglect is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable in California by six months in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine.
• For the complete law and a list of mandated reporters refer to California Penal Codes 11164-11174.3.