Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey, Sheriff Jim McDonnell and the Inter-Agency Council on Child Abuse and Neglect today announced a public education campaign to highlight Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey

“In a place as expansive as Los Angeles County, it is most critical that we unite to prevent child abuse,” Lacey said. “The well-being of children in our communities depends on each of us and, if ever we believe a child is at risk of physical, sexual and emotional abuse or neglect, it is our responsibility to alert authorities.”

The “No-Hitters” campaign, which kicks off on the heels of professional baseball’s Opening Day, is an opportunity to inform the public through weekly social media posts about the various aspects of child abuse. The campaign also places emphasis on how to report the maltreatment of a minor.

The campaign culminates at the end of the month with a public service announcement featuring District Attorney Lacey and Sheriff McDonnell to be shown at Dodger Stadium on Monday, April 23 for Child Abuse Awareness Night.

“Every day in Los Angeles County, many children are victims of abuse,” McDonnell said. “Identifying and protecting these children will have a tremendous impact on many young lives. The Sheriff’s Department’s Special Victims Bureau collaborates with every agency entrusted with the protection of children. This team approach is key to starting the healing process for our young victims.”

Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell

Additionally, in collaboration with ICAN, the Board of Supervisors will proclaim April 2018 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Los Angeles County at its weekly meeting tomorrow.

“It is our belief that by informing and involving the community, we can better assure the safety and well-being for the children and families of Los Angeles County,” ICAN Executive Director Deanne Tilton said.

Under California law, child abuse involves the maltreatment, injury or exploitation of a person under 18 years old, either physically, sexually, emotionally or through neglect.

According to ICAN’s most recent State of Child Abuse report, 1,785 Los Angeles County child abuse reports were submitted to the Department of Justice in 2016.