In Maryland, mandated reporters are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Failure to fulfill this obligation can lead to criminal consequences. Specifically, under Maryland law, a person who fails to report suspected abuse is guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon conviction, the penalties can include imprisonment for up to 5 years, a fine not exceeding $10,000, or both.

Key Points:

1. Mandated Reporter Definition: Individuals considered mandated reporters include professionals such as teachers, healthcare providers, and social workers who are in a position to observe signs of abuse or neglect.

2. Reporting Obligations: Mandated reporters do not need definitive proof that abuse has occurred; reasonable belief is sufficient to trigger the reporting requirement.

3. Penalties: According to Maryland's criminal laws, anyone who intentionally prevents or interferes with making a report can also be guilty of a misdemeanor.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the following resources:

• Maryland Department of Human Services - Mandated Reporters
• Maryland Criminal Code on Penalties for Failure to Report
• Maryland General Assembly - Statute Text

If you need more specific information or further clarification on this subject, feel free to ask!

Sources

Mandated Reporters - Maryland Department of Human ServicesPenalties for Failure to Report and False Reporting of Child Abuse ...Laws - Statute Text - Maryland General AssemblyMd. Code Regs. 07.02.07.04 - Reporting Child Abuse or NeglectFrequently Asked Questions - Accountability and ComplianceMandatory Reporting Requirements: Children Maryland - RAINNMaryland Family Law Code Section 5-705.1 (2024) - Reporting of ...

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