How to Make a Report 
 

Any person, who has contact with children or young people through their ministry on behalf of the Church that suspects a child or vulnerable person has been abused, shall take the following steps to submit a report, in accordance with SDCL 26-8A-8:

 

  • A verbal report must be made immediately to the pastor/pastoral authority, school administrator, or appropriate diocesan staff personnel responsible for a ministry of the suspected abuse or neglect. 

 

 

If there is evidence to suggest that the suspected abuse has been perpetrated by clergy or other church personnel, contact one of the following diocesan authorities:

 

Matt Althoff, Chancellor:  (605)334-9861

Jean Lorang, Victim Assistance Coordinator:  1-800-700-7867

 

  • The local pastoral authority or the school administrator or the appropriate diocesan staff person is required to then contact the Department of Social Services (DSS) or the local law enforcement authority.


SD Division of Child Protection Services contact information
http://dss.sd.gov/cps/protective/reporting.asp

SD Division of Adult Services and Aging referral form
http://dss.sd.gov/elderlyservices/referral/referralform.asp

 

If reporting after normal business hours, contact the local law enforcement agency by calling either 911 or their direct line.  The local law enforcement authorities will place you in touch with the appropriate authority.

 

  • Upon notifying civil authorities, the Diocesan Chancellor is to be notified of the report and provided an update on the status of any investigation begun by local authorities.  A written report should be made to document of the suspected abuse, and the steps that were taken to address the issue.

 

  • All clergy, employees, and volunteers carrying out ministry on behalf of the Church and familiar with the circumstances of the suspected abuse or individual suspected of having been abused is expected to cooperate with any investigation by law enforcement authorities.

 

In the event that you suspect a child or vulnerable adult has been abused, it is important that you contact the appropriate authorities immediately.