Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Bring the Surge of Child Abuse Cases Experts Predicted?

At one point, it was anticipated that child abuse cases would increase significantly while the COVID-19 pandemic was ongoing. However, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services regarding child welfare, there are no established statistics to support that hypothesis. In fact, according to an annual report that was prepared by the Administration for Children and Families during the 2019 fiscal year, the rates of child neglect and abuse actually fell by more than three percent during the pandemic.

Many experts feel that by providing additional resources to families who are at risk, including both mental health services and housing services, the rates of child abuse and neglect may continue to go down. However, child abuse is still an issue throughout the country. In fact, if you are charged with and found guilty of suspected child abuse or neglect, you could be facing serious criminal penalties. You might also be prevented from spending time with your children going forward. 

What is Child Abuse and Neglect?

The umbrella terms of child abuse and neglect encompass various types of behavior. These behaviors include sexually exploiting or abusing a child, injuring a child, treating a child poorly, or negligent treatment of a child. Moreover, the acts of the abuser must have a negative impact on the safety, welfare, and/or the health of the child. Certain types of physical discipline do not ordinarily constitute child abuse.

The Impact of the Pandemic of Child Abuse/Neglect Criminal Arrests and Charges

Many experts predicted that the COVID-19 pandemic, which is still ongoing, would increase the rates of child abuse and neglect across the country. However, it appears that the exact opposite has occurred. On the one hand, children have been spending more time with their parents since they have not been able to attend school on a regular basis until more recently. However, this does not seem to have increased the rates of child abuse over and above those that existed prior to the pandemic.

Moreover, in some areas, the pandemic may have decreased the ability of the state to punish child neglect and abuse. Going forward, it might be helpful to provide at-risk families with financial services and housing improvements in order to prevent problems before they ever start. This proactive approach could significantly lessen the number of arrests and convictions for crimes related to child abuse and neglect.

Accused of Child Abuse?

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For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney, please call us today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online.

Criminal child abuse and neglect charges and convictions can have a serious impact on your life. If you are facing one of these charges, the experienced attorneys at Cohen Law Offices can help by protecting your legal rights and defending you against your pending charge.