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.
Ohio
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
CHURCH GUIDELINES
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Ohio
Ohio law defines abuse and neglect under the Juvenile Code. An abused child includes a person under 18 who has suffered physical or mental injury (non-accidental), sexual abuse (or exposure to sexual offenses), or is endangered.
A neglected child is one who lacks adequate care due to the actions or omissions of their parent or guardian — for example, not providing necessary food, supervision, medical care, or adequate parenting.
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway – Ohio definitions. )
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Certain professionals are mandatory reporters in Ohio when acting in a professional or official capacity. This list includes many roles, but Ohio’s statute specifically excludes “a person, other than a cleric, rendering spiritual treatment through prayer” from that mandatory list. Thus, clergy are generally not required to report if they receive information in a purely spiritual, non-professional capacity.
Mandatory Reporting Laws
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When a mandated reporter (per ORC 2151.421) knows or suspects a child has been abused or neglected, they must immediately make a report — by phone, in person, or electronically — to the public children services agency (PCSA) in the appropriate county or to a peace officer.
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If requested by the receiving agency, a written report must follow.
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The report must include: names and addresses of child/parents, age, nature and extent of injury or neglect, and any relevant background.
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Physicians or other mandated reporters may document visible injuries (photos) or order necessary medical/exam tests to support the report.
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Failure to report when required (knowingly) is a misdemeanor.
(Source: Ohio Revised Code § 2151.421 (reporting requirements) )
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
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Physical / mental injury: non-accidental harm or threat thereof.
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Sexual abuse / exploitation: includes statutory sex offenses, exposure to illegal sexual material, or similar offenses.
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Neglect: failure to provide proper care, supervision, or basic needs.
Churches are encouraged (though not all these are mandated by statute) to: -
Train clergy and volunteers on recognizing abuse/neglect
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Develop internal reporting protocols aligned with legal obligations
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Post or make available the contact info for children services agencies
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Supervise children with safe-environment practices
(Source: Ohio law definitions (see ORC above))
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
Mandated reporters include school teachers, school employees, school authorities (administrators), licensed school psychologists, and others in an official capacity per ORC § 2151.421. Also, any person (not just mandated) with reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect may report.
(Source: ORC § 2151.421 (who must report) )
Mandatory Reporting Laws
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School personnel who suspect abuse or neglect must immediately report their concerns to the PCSA or law enforcement.
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If the agency receiving the report requests, the school reporter must then submit a written report containing detailed information (child’s name, injury, prior history, etc.).
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School / district policies likely mirror these legal obligations, and training is usually required to ensure staff understand their reporting duty.
(Source: Child Welfare Info Gateway – Ohio. )
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
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Schools should use the statutory definitions: abused child, neglected child, threat of harm, etc. (from ORC) when assessing concerns.
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Prevention practices schools are encouraged to adopt: mandatory-reporter training, establishing clear internal protocols for reporting, background checks for staff/volunteers, supervision policies for students, and awareness of how to make reports.
(Source: Ohio Revised Code definitions )
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Ohio
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Mandated reporting is a key component of Ohio’s child protection system; when reports are made, public children services agencies (PCSAs) must investigate. Under ORC § 2151.421(G), PCSAs generally must begin investigation within 24 hours for serious abuse or threats.
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According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, Ohio’s system allows reports from both mandated reporters and any concerned individual, which helps ensure broader protection.
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University policies (via Ohio Admin Code) reinforce that even non-clerical staff should report if they suspect abuse.
(Source: Child Welfare Info Gateway – Ohio reporting system overview.)
GROOMING LAWS
Ohio law prohibits persons eighteen years old or older from engaging in patterns of conduct with minors under the age of sixteen, or four years younger than them, that are purposed to entice, coerce, solicit or prepare the minor to engage in sexual activity.
In addition, Ohio law prohibits persons eighteen years old or older from engaging in patterns of conduct with minors that are purposed to entice, coerce, solicit or prepare the minor to engage in sexual activity if they have one of the following relationships with the minor:
- the offender is the natural or adoptive parent, stepparent, guardian, custodian, or person in loco parentis of the minor
- they are in custody of law, a patient in a hospital or other institution and the offender is in a supervisory/disciplinary role over the minor
- the offender is a teacher, administrator, coach, or other authority employed by or serving in a school and the minor is enrolled at or attending that school
- the offender is a teacher, administrator, coach, or other authority employed or serving at an institution of higher education and minor is enrolled at or attending that institution
- the offender is the minor’s athletic or other type coach, instructor, leader of scouting troop, or has temporary/occasional disciplinary control over the minor
- the offender is a mental health professional and leads the minor to believe that the sexual activity is necessary for treatment
- the offender is a licensed medical professional and the minor is a patient and the sexual activity occurs in the course of treatment
- the minor is confined in a detention facility and the offender is employed by that facility
- the offender is a cleric and the minor is a member of or attends the church or congregation served by the cleric.
(Source: Ohio Laws Section 2907.071, Ohio Laws Section 2907.03(A)(5)-(13))
How to make a report in the state of Ohio
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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Use the statewide child abuse reporting number: 1-855-OH-CHILD (1-855-642-4453).
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If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local law enforcement.
After Making the Call:
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Mandated reporters (like teachers, medical professionals, social workers, clergy, etc.) must immediately report any suspicion under Ohio Revised Code § 2151.421.
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Depending on the county, you may be asked to file a written or electronic follow-up through your local Public Children Services Agency (PCSA).
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Do not rely on email for reports — use the hotline, phone, fax, or in-person.
Information to Provide When Reporting:
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Child’s name, age, and address or location
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Description of the suspected abuse or neglect (what was seen, heard, or disclosed)
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Names of parents/caregivers, if known
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Any immediate safety or medical concerns
Additional Notes & Protections:
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Mandated reporters are legally required to report when they suspect abuse or neglect.
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Good faith reporters are protected from civil or criminal liability.
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You may report anonymously, although giving your name can help with follow-up.
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?
Join us in protecting the next generation
Take your child protection measures to the next level.
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Information updated on 3.18.2026
