If a minor reports that a friend has confided about being sexually abused, can a report be made to law enforcement?

The ability to report a disclosure of sexual abuse, even if it’s second-hand, is vital for protecting the safety and well-being of the individual involved. In this situation, reporting the friend's disclosure to law enforcement is not only permissible but often necessary.

When a minor communicates that a friend has experienced sexual abuse, it raises concerns about the friend's safety and the potential for ongoing harm. It is essential to take such disclosures seriously, regardless of whether the information comes directly from the survivor or is relayed by someone else. Reporting to law enforcement allows trained professionals to investigate and provide appropriate support to the victim, ensuring that the situation is addressed properly.

Moreover, laws concerning mandatory reporting sometimes require that any suspected abuse, regardless of the source, must be reported to authorities. This emphasizes the importance of acting on second-hand information when it pertains to abuse, as the stakes—potential danger to the victim—are significant.

In summary, reporting such information to law enforcement helps protect those at risk and is aligned with legal and ethical obligations to ensure the safety of minors.