State Rep. Woody Burton sheds light on child abuse in Indiana during Child Abuse Prevention Month.
According to the Department of Child Services (DCS), over 202,000 child abuse or neglect cases were reported in 2015. This session, Burton supported legislation setting up a child abuse offender registry containing information on individuals previously convicted of child abuse or neglect.
Better known as “Kirk’s Law,” Burton said that this proposal was inspired by Kirk Coleman, a 19-month-old child who passed away while under the care of a babysitter who had pled guilty to child neglect eight years prior to Kirk’s passing.
Burton, a victim of child abuse, has shared his story with others to draw attention to this growing problem. Last year, Burton testified in favor of legislation that provided funding for victims of domestic violence.
“I know firsthand the devastating effects child abuse can have on a victim. When I was younger, my father was very abusive. It is something that will always be a part of me,” Burton said. “This month is a reminder to always be on the lookout for warning signs to protect those who cannot protect themselves.”
Throughout April, there will be several events held across the state to raise awareness for child abuse prevention. On Monday, April 11, Gov. Mike Pence will recognize Child Abuse Awareness Month with a presentation at the Indiana Statehouse. For more information visit www.in.gov/dcs/preventchildabuse.
If you know of or suspect child abuse or neglect, call the 24-hour DCS hotline at 1-800-800-5556.
