Child Abuse Cases Decrease as Allegations Rise

Across California and Santa Barbara County, verified incidents of child abuse have decreased despite a growth in allegations, according to a presentation made to county supervisors this week. In 2013, the county’s child-abuse hotline received 7,654 calls, and social workers conducted 3,309 investigations. Most cases involved general neglect, followed by physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. In 2013, more than 500 kids entered foster care. Most children who leave foster care are reunited with their families or adopted; last year, 114 kids were adopted.