Sex Offender Registry
Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect
Missouri Rev. Stat. § 210.115 sets forth a list of professionals required to report suspected child abuse or neglect (including sexual abuse) to authorities. The list includes medical and mental health care providers, daycare center workers, school employees, social workers, clergy members and employees of religious organizations, juvenile officers, law enforcement officials, persons responsible for the care of children, and commercial film and photo processors.
In addition, any other person who has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect may make a report.
Reports must be made immediately.
Sexual Abuse and Exploitation
Missouri Ann. Stat. § 210.110 provides that ‘abuse’ means any physical injury inflicted on a child by other than accidental means by those responsible for the child’s care, custody, and control.
The term ‘abuse’ includes sexual abuse.