Sec. 7.5. (a) If, during the assessment, a caseworker observes, or has reason to believe, that an animal is a victim of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect, the caseworker may make a report of the observed or suspected animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect to:
(1) the local law enforcement agency; or
(2) the local animal control officer.
(b) The information provided in a report under subsection (a) must include the following:
(1) A name and description of the animal and the animal's condition.
(2) The name and contact number, if known, of the owner or custodian of the animal.
(3) The address or location of the observed or suspected animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect.
(4) The nature and apparent extent of the observed or suspected animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect.
(c) This section does not impose a duty or obligation on the caseworker to investigate known or suspected animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect.
(d) A caseworker who makes a report of an animal that may be a victim of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect is immune from any civil or criminal liability unless the caseworker made the report as a result of gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.
(e) The identity of any caseworker who makes a report under this section is confidential.
(f) This section does not expand or limit other laws concerning confidentiality requirements.
As added by P.L.106-2018, SEC.4.
Structure Indiana Code
Title 31. Family Law and Juvenile Law
Article 33. Juvenile Law: Reporting and Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect
Chapter 8. Investigation of Reports of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
31-33-8-2. Investigations by Law Enforcement Agencies
31-33-8-3. Photographs and X-Rays
31-33-8-4. Notice to Prosecuting Attorney of Reports Involving Child's Death
31-33-8-5. Forwarding Copies of Reports to Prosecuting Attorney
31-33-8-6. Investigatory Duties of Department of Child Services; Purpose
31-33-8-7.5. Reporting of Observed or Suspected Animal Cruelty, Abandonment, or Neglect
31-33-8-8. Order for Child's Immediate Removal; Preparation of Investigative Report
31-33-8-9. Provision of Copies of Investigative Report by Department of Child Services
31-33-8-10. Provision of Information and Copies of Investigative Report by Law Enforcement Agency
31-33-8-11. Law Enforcement Agency's Duty to Release Information to Department of Child Services
31-33-8-12. Classifying Reports as Substantiated or Unsubstantiated
31-33-8-13. Court Findings to Be Entered in the Child Protection Index