How do I report abuse?
If you suspect abuse of a child or a vulnerable adult (or has been abused), call proper law enforcement or the Washington State DSHS hotline no later than 48 hours. 1-866-END-HARM
How is Abuse Defined?
Abuse refers to an intentional act committed by a person in a position of trust which harms of threatens to harm a minor (under age 18) or vulnerable adult’s physical or mental awareness.
Should I report it?
Please remember that it is not your job to decide if the situation you have identified is abuse or not. The authorities you call will make that decision based upon their own investigations. If you suspect or have reasonable belief that abuse has occurred, call the appropriate authorities.
Who are Mandated reporters in the Diocese of Yakima?
It is the policy of the Diocese of Yakima that all of the following groups are required to follow the mandated guidelines for reporting suspected abuse of the vulnerable population.
- Priests
- Deacons
- Employees
- All Parish Personnel
- All School Personnel
- All Chancery Personnel
- All employees of any agency of the Archdiocese of Seattle
- Volunteers
- Catechists
- Coaches
- Scout Leaders
- Youth Leaders
- Any individual who have ongoing, unsupervised contact with minors or vulnerable adults
What Information should I supply when Reporting Abuse?
Be sure you have as much information about the victim as possible including:
- Name
- Age (approximates if OK)
- Address
- Telephone Number
- Name of Parent of Guardian
- Nature of Abuse
- Name/Address/Number of Abuse
What is a Minor?
Anyone under the age of 18.
Who are Vulnerable Adults?
- Any person over 60 who is unable to care for him or herself
- Certain individuals with developmental disabilities
- Anyone over 18 who has a legal guardian
- Individuals receiving in-home care through licensed health, hospice or home health care agency or from an aide hired on their own.
Do I call the Diocese of Yakima?
If you have been abused or victimized by a member of the Catholic clergy, please believe in the possibility for hope and help and healing. We encourage you to come forward and speak out.
The Yakima Diocese has a sexual abuse hot line for those who wish to report some incident concerning that issue as regards a bishop, priest, deacon or diocesan employee or volunteer:
(888) 276-4490
Si used ha sido abusado o ha sido victima de un miembro del clero católico, le pedimos que crea en la posibilidad de esperanza, ayuda y sanación. Le animamos a que nos hable.
La Diócesis de Yakima ha establecido un numero telefónico especial para personas que desean dar un informe concerniente un abuso sexual cometido por un obispo, sacerdote, diácono, empleado diocesano o voluntario: (888) 276-4490
Should I report i
Should I report it?
How is Abuse Defined?
How is Abuse Defined?
How is Abuse Defined?