Child abuse is generally the mistreatment of a child by a parent or caregiver—through actions or inactions—that causes injury, death, or emotional harm to the child—or that places the child at serious risk of such injury, death, or emotional harm. Mistreatment that constitutes child abuse may take many forms, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, failure to supervise, and exploitation. Child abuse laws vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s family code and criminal or penal code.

In West Virginia, child abuse laws are designed to protect children from harm and ensure their well-being. Child abuse is defined under West Virginia Code §49-1-201 as the infliction of physical, mental, or emotional injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, or the act of selling or attempting to sell a child. This encompasses various forms of mistreatment, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and exploitation. The state mandates that certain professionals, such as educators, health care providers, and social workers, are required to report suspected cases of child abuse to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR). Failure to report can result in penalties. The DHHR investigates reports of child abuse and neglect and can take action to protect the child, including working with law enforcement if a crime has been committed. Criminal charges for child abuse can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the abuse.