Sexual assault reporting in cases of child abuse: everyone’s obligation

Susie Striegler is the sexual assault nurse examiner at the Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene, Texas. As such, she is responsible for interviewing potential victims who make sexual assault claims, especially in child abuse cases.

“It’s usually between 10 months and three years before they report. That’s usually the time it takes for them to report, if they report at all,” Striegler said. According to Texas Family Law, a professional must report abuse if there probable cause to believe it is happening.

Members of the school district believe teachers and counselors must report incidents of abuse and neglect. Superintendent David Young said, “Accurate and adequate reporting of potential child abuse is of paramount importance in Abilene ISD. Unfortunately, recent history in our community includes a couple of instances where individual employees failed to follow appropriate guidelines and practices related to the reporting of potential child abuse.”

Our attorneys at Kirker Davis LLP provide legal services for our clients in Austin and other areas of Texas. We handle family law cases such as abuse and neglect. If you are in a difficult family situation, contact a member of our legal team by calling our offices today at (512) 598-0010.