Reporting Requirements for Suspected Abuse of a Minor

The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston requires compliance with applicable laws regarding incidents of actual or suspected child abuse including abuse involving child on child conduct. Failure to report suspected physical or mental abuse or neglect of a child in Texas is a crime punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both.

PERMISSION TO MAKE A REPORT IS NOT REQUIRED OR EXPECTED. ERROR ON THE SIDE OF MAKING A GOOD FAITH REPORT RATHER THAN FAILING TO DO SO.

TO REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE OF A MINOR (person under 18 years of age) BY AN UNKNOWN PERPETRATOR

Immediately contact Child Protective Services (CPS) of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services at 1-800-252-5400 and Local Police Department.

TO REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE OF A MINOR (person under 18 years of age) BY A MEMBER OF THE CLERGY

Immediately contact Child Protective Services (CPS) of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services at 1-800-252-5400 and Local Police Department

Diane Vines, Victims’ Assistance Coordinator Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, Post Office Box 907, Houston, Texas 77001 

Email: vac@archgh.org or 713-654-5799 (confidential voice mail)

TO REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE OF A MINOR (person under 18 years of age) BY AN EMPLOYEE OR VOLUNTEER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE

Immediately contact Child Protective Services (CPS) of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services at 1-800-252-5400 and Local Police Department

Director, Office of Child and Youth Protection, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, 1700 San Jacinto Houston, Texas 77002, 713-652-4499

STATEMENT FROM CARDINAL DINARDO