02/12/2026
Silence has a price and in Florida, it’s a felony. ⚖️
Under Florida Statute 39.205, knowingly and willfully failing to report suspected child abuse, exploitation, abandonment, or neglect is not a slap on the wrist. It is a Third-Degree Felony and applies to EVERYONE. Everyone is required to report by law. Teachers and healthcare workers are required by law and profession.
The Consequences of Inaction:
*Prison: Up to 5 years in state prison.
*Fines: Up to $5,000 in personal fines.
*Record: A permanent felony conviction.
*Institutional Fines: Schools or universities that fail to report can face fines up to $1 million per
violation.
Turning a blind eye doesn't make the problem go away; it makes you a part of it. Protection is the law.
📞 Call: 1-800-962-2873
💻 Online: https://reportabuse.myflfamilies.com/s/
📱 TTY: 711 or 1-800-955-8771