Under Maryland law, human trafficking and child pornography are considered child abuse and must be reported.
Why was it important to specifically identify trafficking in the child abuse law?
Allows for a protective response vs. a punitive response
Changes the perception from the child from criminal to victim of a crime & allows a trafficker to be defined as a “caretaker” in order for the child to receive the assistance of DHR
Prohibits a trafficking victim from being housed in a correctional or detention facility, if there are no other delinquent charges or involvement with the DJS system
Allows a child victim of trafficking to be considered a CINA (Child In Need of Assistance)
May be taken into custody under the Child Protective Services and receive shelter care
Changes the Family Code Law
Who are Mandatory Reporters in MD?
Maryland Family Law § 5-704 - Persons Required to Report
Health Practitioners
Educators or Human Service Workers
Police Officers
Maryland Family Law § 5-705
Any other person who has reason to believe that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect must report.