Mandated reporters have to report instances of sexual contact between children under the age of 18 in the following circumstances:
- When the sexual contact or intercourse is coerced or in any way not voluntary. This includes situations where the victim is unconscious, intoxicated, or forced by duress or threats.
- When the sexual contact involves sexual exploitation or trafficking.
- In some jurisdictions like California, mandated reporters must report based on specific age differences between the partners. For example, certain age gaps between a minor and their sexual partner trigger a mandatory report, even if the contact is consensual.
Mandated reporters do not have to prove abuse but must report if they have reasonable suspicion. The reporting is required as soon as the suspicion is formed and should be made to child protection services or law enforcement depending on local laws. The actual requirements can vary by jurisdiction, but the key principles involve:
- Reporting when abuse, coercion, or exploitation is suspected,
- Reporting when age differences meet specific legal thresholds,
- Reporting based on reasonable suspicion, not proof.
For example, under California law, sexual intercourse with a minor must be reported when it is coerced, involves trafficking or exploitation, or when age differences fall into certain mandated categories. Similarly, other states and countries have comparable rules but may differ slightly in age limits and reporting procedures.
In summary, mandated reporters must report instances of sexual contact between children under 18 when there is suspicion of coercion, exploitation, trafficking, or when the age difference between the parties triggers mandatory reporting by law.
