Child abuse - arguaably the most insidious form of domestic  violence - is rampant in the United States. In a recent year over  3 million cases of child abuse were reported. Sadly, this figure does not accurately depict the actual number of abuse cases - because often each report may represent the needs of more than one child. In fact, over 5 1/2 million children were victims over the course of 365 days.  This is an average of 15,000 cases of child abuse reported each day from coast to coast.

As difficult as this topic is to broach there are even more chilling statistics to consider. Of those who are abused an average of 5 children die each day from child abuse and neglect. Over seventy-five percent of these deaths are children under the age of four. The abuse has been shown to be cyclical - over 30% of those abused as children go on to abuse their own children later in life.

Too, child abuse is not limited to a single class or race - but occurs at all socioeconomic levels across all racial lines and within all religions and education levels. Finally, children who have been abused are more likely to take drugs and otherwise make poor life decisions.

Statistics also indicate that child abuse has steadily increased over the last ten years. A spike in child abuse cases in recent years can be traced - in part - to the difficult economic times many Americans are experiencing. If you suspect child abuse it is your moral and legal obligation to report it to the appropriate authorities. We must work together to bring an end to this blight. A multitude of local, state and federal agencies are available to offer assistance. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

David Breston is a Houston child abuse defense attorney. If you need help with a child abuse case in Houston, call David Breston at 713 224 4040.