Child Abuse

Without individual and community concern and involvement, there are really three victims of child abuse: the child, the abuser and the community. Each of us can make a valuable contribution to the protection of children and prevention of abuse. Our concern and involvement are critical - it may save a life.

Child abuse comes in a variety of forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect. Being familiar with common child abuse indicators can help you recognize when something just isn't right. For more details on child abuse, visit the California Attorney General's Crime and Violence Prevention Center website.

Though the law requires certain professionals to report suspicion and/or knowledge of child abuse to the appropriate authorities, community members also play an important role in protecting children from abuse and neglect. Involvement does not mean physical intervention or spying on others - it simply means not ignoring the obvious.

Please contact the Pacifica Police Department at the main business line if you have reason to believe that a child you know is the victim of abuse. If members of the community not required by law to report abuse do not wish to identify themselves, they can make a report anonymously by calling the city's Silent Witness Hotline at 650-359-4444.

The goal of child protective agencies is to try and keep the family unit intact unless the child is in danger. Often families will be referred to counseling, public assistance services or parenting classes.

(Excerpts/content taken from the California Attorney General's Crime and Violence Prevention Center brochure on Child Abuse.)

Elder Abuse

With life expectancies increasing and the Baby Boomer generation approaching retirement, the number of seniors in society is continually increasing. Because of increasing physical, mental and financial limitations, the elderly are susceptible to certain types of abuse. We must recognize the seriousness of this problem and take steps to prevent it.

Elder abuse comes in a variety of forms, including physical abuse, psychological abuse, financial abuse and neglect. Being familiar with common elder abuse indicators can help you to help the abused recognize and change their situation. For more details on elder abuse, visit the California Attorney General's Crime and Violence Prevention Center website.

If an elderly person you know is being victimized, it is important that you take action to prevent escalation of the abuse, especially since victims are reluctant to report. Whether the abuse is taking place in a long-term care facility or a private residence, contact the Pacifica Police Department at the main business line. If a situation is life-threatening, call 911. Law enforcement can make appropriate referrals to an adult protective services agency. If members of the community do not wish to identify themselves, they can make a report anonymously by calling the city's Silent Witness Hotline at 650-359-4444.

Regardless of age, all members of society have a right to be free from abuse and neglect.

(Excerpts/content taken from the California Attorney General's Crime and Violence Prevention Center brochure on Elder Abuse.)