Mandated Reporters - Why It is so Important to "Step UP"

A mandated reporter is a person who is required by law to report suspected or known instances of abuse or neglect, particularly concerning children or vulnerable adults. This obligation typically applies to certain professionals, such as teachers and healthcare workers, but in some jurisdictions, all adults may be considered mandated reporters. Their role is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of those who may be at risk of harm.

“House of horrors”: Teen found weighing 35 pounds sparks shocking child neglect charges

Above is the definition of a mandated reporter. A person who is supposed to step up for children! So what happened in Wisconsin? The link to this article called “The House of Horrors” is another devastating look at child abuse at its worst. A young child living in deplorable conditions, locked away in their room and starved. How could they fly under the radar when we have so many “mandated reporters” in this child’s life.

The child (girl) had autism and was seeing a doctor regularly for health issues and was registered in the school system. When a child is being home schooled there are still protocols set in place and there needs to be check ins continually. She basically fell off the face of the earth, and NObody stepped up to ask the questions or check in. Why wasnt a child welfare check set in place after such a long extended period of time?

She was being abused not only by her parents but her sister and her partner. You have four grown adults taking turns abusing and starving her. When they found her she weighed in at 35 pounds at the age of 14. First responders thought she was a young child around the age of 6. How devastating. The police and first responders confirmed the horrendous conditions of the home and how she was living.

The only reason she was found was because the father called 911, as she was unresponsive. That was the result of severe dehydration and being starved. Her organs were shutting down. If he did not call on that very day, she would no longer be here. She was that close to death.

It is devastating to think that people can treat their children in such a horrible way. The father stated on more than one occasion that he wished she was dead.

Also, there were family friends that knew how this child was being treated and never stepped up. One friend was quoted, “I told him he should treat his daughter better”. It still amazes me that people speak after the fact, acting like they are doing a good thing. The reality is they are just as negligent as everyone else involved.

WE need to do better, and our children need us to keep them safe. I will continue to share stories like this because they are important to hear. Awareness and education are key to change. The laws need to be stricter about child welfare. Look to your community and see where you can help. Always be aware of your surroundings, and do not be afraid to ask the questions. YOU will be saving a life of a child. No more sitting on the sidelines, I ask you to GET UP - SPEAK UP - do your part.

Children will continue to be abused if we keep on the blinders.

Embrace the Journey,

Lisa Zarcone

Author - Child & Mental Health Advocate - Public Speaker - Blogger - Social Media Influencer

CASA ADVOCATE (Court appointed special advocate for youth in the judicial system)

Massachusetts National Ambassador for Naasca (National Association of Adult Survivors of Child Abuse)