The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) recently released their report on Child Fatalities and Near Fatalities for Fiscal Year 2018. Some key statistics from the report include:
- Texas had 211 confirmed child abuse and neglect-related fatalities in FY 2018, an increase of 22.7% compared to FY 2017 (172). 36% of the victims were infants and 69% were under the age of three.
- The increase in child maltreatment fatalities in FY 2018 is predominantly due to physical abuse fatalities, which increased by 58% over FY 2017.
- In FY 2018, Texas had 82 confirmed abuse and neglect-related near-fatalities, a decrease of 11.8% compared to FY 2017.
- From FY 2017 to FY 2018, there was a 25% increase in child fatalities caused by abuse or neglect involving a parent or caregiver actively using a substance and/or under the influence of at least one substance that affected the ability to care for the child.
- Abusive head trauma accounted for 45.1% of the total number of near-fatalities.
For more information and to read the full report, visit the DFPS website.
Child Abuse Prevention Month is right around the corner, and if these statistics are any indication, it is needed now more than ever. Even one child death due to abuse or neglect is too many. CASA community, let’s come together, raise awareness, and do our part to help end child abuse and neglect this April and beyond.