We are a team of determined individuals who share a painful personal experience. Among us is a mother whose daughter has been crying out about sexual, physical, and mental abuse since she was only two. A police report detailing physical abuse and death threats was eyed without adequate seriousness, leaving the child once again in the terrifying company of her abuser. We stand united with the mother and berry the hope and necessity that law enforcement needs to do more.

We request a legal mandate requiring an in-person police interrogation on situations when a child makes an outcry of abuse. Every claim, regardless of the expected outcome, should lead to an on-the-record police report. This administrative change indicates that our society refuses to cast aside children's pleas and stands to protect them. Also, it demonstrates to potential perpetrators that law enforcement is a formidable protective barrier.

We respect the due process rights of everyone involved. Yet, when it comes to child safety, the scales of justice must be weighted in favor of immediate, vigilant response. The American Society for the Positive Care of Children, in 2020, reported about 700,000 child abuse victims. The same year, just over half were subjects of investigations or alternative responses by Child Protective Services agencies. It is evident that the process needs to be more proactive; outlet children deserve it.

We urge everyone to join us in this plight to ensure that every child's outcry is met with robust, timely, and thorough police investigation. Sign this petition today to demonstrate to our lawmakers the urgent call for change in our child protection policies.