Is this considered child abuse?

[osmosis]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Florida

Long story short, my ex recently "spanked" our 3 children with a belt and left blisters on our 12 year old. My daughter says it was due to the neglect of the dishes and an argument that ensued between she and her two younger brothers (8 & 6).

I, of course, wasn't able to get pictures of the marks due to them being in her primary care for 2 weeks at a time and all I have to go on is their story.

She already has an open case file with CPS, and in February of last year a report was filed against her for bruises she left on our youngest son.

Is this latest spanking incident worth reporting?

 

[CourtClerk]

If it left welts, then yes, it should have been reported. However, if there is no proof now, what can you do?

 

[osmosis]

If it left welts, then yes, it should have been reported. However, if there is no proof now, what can you do?

My thoughts as well. Just checking.

I hate this..

Thanks again.

 

[CourtClerk]

Time to have a discussion with the kids. Next time this happens and there are bruises, go to school, find the principal, vice principal, school nurse, teacher... someone and have them tell them.

Show them the bruises.

 

[osmosis]

That's a damn good idea. Thank you.

 

[onebreath]

I'm confused, on the post board, it states this last post was yesterday...thats why I am responding.

I have taught my 9 year old that when she is getting hurt (I don't care about marks) and is scared of her dad, to call 911. When she is sincerely afraid. She did report abuse to a teacher a few months ago. Not much was done about it...cps was called and they were lame in our case, but I was forewarned.

However, I would teach your daughter, esp if marks, do what the last poster said, teach her to go to someone safe at the school and report it. If they see marks, they will report that too, and something should be done.

 

[Innerpeaceom]

I believe so

Overly using force in punishment is considered child abuse. Spanking is a grey area in the eyes of the law, but i believe using an instrament or tool is considered unwarrented force. My ex boyfriends roommate went to jail for 2 1/2 years for beating his son terribly with a belt (the buckle end). No one likes to hear of a child being beaten, so bring it up to Child Services.

 

[Ohiogal]

Overly using force in punishment is considered child abuse. Spanking is a grey area in the eyes of the law, but i believe using an instrament or tool is considered unwarrented force. My ex boyfriends roommate went to jail for 2 1/2 years for beating his son terribly with a belt (the buckle end). No one likes to hear of a child being beaten, so bring it up to Child Services.

Why are you posting a post that is almost a month old? And you need proof. Osmo has no proof.