Note: This information does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to consult with attorneys who are knowledgeable and experienced regarding specific applicability of these listed laws, based on their own circumstances.
Indiana
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CHURCH GUIDELINES
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Indiana
Indiana law defines a “child in need of services” to include children whose physical or mental health is seriously endangered by injury, sexual abuse, exploitation, abandonment, or neglect. Specific acts include physical harm by a parent/guardian, involvement in criminal sexual offenses (e.g., rape, child molesting, incest, human trafficking), and emotional endangerment by act or omission of a parent, guardian, or custodian. Other conditions such as abandonment and deprivation of necessary care also fall under abuse/neglect standards.
(Source: Indiana Code §§ 31-34-1-2, 31-34-1-3, 31-34-1-4; definitions of child abuse and neglect.)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Indiana does not limit mandated reporting duties to only certain professions — the statute states that any person who has reason to believe a child is a victim of abuse or neglect must make a report. This broad duty includes clergy and church staff, whether paid or volunteer, without a statutory “clergy privilege” exception expressly relieving them of the duty to report. Clergy must report when, in any capacity, they have reasonable cause to suspect abuse.
(Source: Indiana Code § 31-33-5-1; Clergy reporting overview.)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
In Indiana, everyone is a mandated reporter — not just specified professions — meaning if you have reason to believe a child is abused or neglected, you must report it immediately to the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) or a local law enforcement agency. Reports should be made by phone or through the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-800-5556). Reporting to a supervisor or church leadership does not fulfill your legal duty unless the report has already been filed to DCS or law enforcement. Failure to report suspicion of abuse/neglect is a Class B misdemeanor, potentially carrying fines and jail time.
(Source: Indiana Code §§ 31-33-5-1, 31-33-5-4; Indiana Department of Child Services hotline info.)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Indiana’s statutory definitions of abuse and neglect apply in all contexts, including church settings. Abuse includes physical harm, sexual offenses, emotional endangerment, and neglect by caregivers. While state statute does not prescribe specific prevention policy requirements for churches, best practices strongly encourage faith communities to adopt child protection policies, screening, training, and internal protocols to recognize and report abuse. Church confidentiality policies do not override the statutory duty to report suspected abuse or neglect.
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
All adults are mandated reporters in Indiana — including teachers, school administrators, counselors, aides, and support staff — under state law. If any school personnel have reason to believe a child is a victim of abuse or neglect, they must report directly to DCS or law enforcement. Reporting to school authorities (e.g., a principal) does not satisfy the legal duty to report unless an official report has already been made.
(Source: Indiana Code §§ 31-33-5-1; Indiana State Teachers Association child abuse reporting update.)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
When school personnel know or reasonably suspect abuse or neglect, they must immediately make an oral or written report to the DCS hotline or local law enforcement. The report should include identifying information and the nature of the suspected abuse to the best of the reporter’s ability. After the initial report, school staff should notify the appropriate school authority that a report has been made, but this internal notice does not replace the statutory duty to report externally. Written reports may follow, and DCS must generate a written summary within statutory time frames.
(Source: Indiana Code §§ 31-33-5-1, 31-33-5-4; mandated reporter procedures.)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
The same definitions of abuse and neglect apply in schools as in general child welfare law. Schools often implement training and child protection policies to help staff recognize and report signs of maltreatment, though state law does not require specific curricula. Internal school policies must not delay or supersede the immediate reporting obligation to DCS or law enforcement.
(Source: Indiana Code §§ 31-33; child welfare reporting resources.)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Indiana
Hotline & Reporting:
Indiana operates a statewide Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline — 1-800-800-5556, available 24/7 to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Reports can be made anonymously, but providing contact information assists follow-up.
Investigation & Services:
Upon receiving a report, DCS collaborates with law enforcement to assess risk and initiate investigations. If a child’s safety is threatened, DCS conducts timely assessments and may take protective actions or connect families with services.
Immunity & Confidentiality:
Individuals who report suspected abuse or neglect in good faith are granted civil and criminal immunity, even if the report is unsubstantiated. DCS protects the reporter’s identity, and confidentiality helps safeguard those who make reports.
Penalties:
Failure to make a required report is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, which can include fines (up to $1,000) and imprisonment (up to 180 days). Good-faith reporting immunity encourages compliance.
How to make a report in the state of Indiana
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 1-800-800-5556 — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all yearto report suspected child abuse or neglect.
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Emergency or immediate danger? Call 911 or local law enforcement first.
After Making the Call –
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The hotline is the centralized intake for all suspected child abuse or neglect reports in Indiana.
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You may be asked to provide additional details about the situation and involved parties.
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Reports may be accepted anonymously, but providing contact information can help with follow-up.
Information to Provide (as known):
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Child’s name, age, and address or location.
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Description of suspected abuse or neglect — what was seen, heard, or disclosed.
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Names of parents/caregivers or persons responsible, if known.
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Any immediate safety, medical, or danger concerns.
Who Should Report / Legal Duty:
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Anyone who has reason to believe a child is being abused or neglected must make a report under Indiana law.
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Failure to report can be a Class B misdemeanor for individuals.
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Mandated reporters (teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, law enforcement, etc.) must report suspected abuse or neglect immediately.
Protections & Confidentiality:
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Reports made in good faith are legally protected — reporters are immune from civil or criminal liability if they report honestly and without malicious intent.
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The Department of Child Services keeps the identity of reporters confidential to the extent allowed by law and accepts anonymous reports.
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
In a world where child protection is paramount, ECAP is elevating child protection standards, ensuring a secure and nurturing environment in Christian ministries.
Every aspect of life adheres to specific standards – whether it be technology, education, finances, or industry practices.
In Jesus’ teachings, He imparted immense value to children, emphasizing the significance of their well-being. Reflecting on this profound truth, a compelling question emerges: Shouldn’t child protection be upheld to an even higher standard than these other areas, considering the blessing of children?
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Information updated on 8.17.2025
