Start your 7-day free trial — unlock full access instantly.

Lead Closed

This opportunity is no longer accepting submissions.

WaldwickGreen Risk

ClosedGeneral

Protection & Safe Treatment of Minors

BID #: N/A

ISSUED: 11/23/2021

DUE: TBD

VALUE: TBD

100

Rating

Risk Rank

Green Risk

AI-Powered Lead Insights

Executive Summary

This document outlines the Borough of Waldwick's policy regarding the protection and safe treatment of minors. The policy aims to safeguard children under the Borough's care from all forms of abuse and establish safeguards to eliminate opportunities for such abuse. It emphasizes the responsibilities of officials, employees, and volunteers who interact with minors, detailing procedures for recruitment, background checks, training, and reporting suspected abuse. Key elements include mandatory background checks for employees and volunteers, training on recognizing and reporting abuse, and specific program procedures to ensure minors' safety and well-being. Adopted November 23, 2021, the policy reflects the Borough's commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals in its community and adhering to the highest standards of conduct in interactions with children.

Web Content

Automated discovery link found on Waldwick website.

Document Text

--- Document: Protection & Safe Treatment of Minors Document ---
Borough of Waldwick 
Policy Addressing the Protection and Safe Treatment 
of Minors and Frequently Asked Questions 
Adopted November 23, 2021 


ii 
 
Policy Addressing the Protection and Safe Treatment of Minors 
Table of Contents 
Section I 
Purpose and Scope 
Page 1 
Section II 
Definitions 
Page 4 
Section III 
Statement of Policy 
Page 5 
Section IV 
Recruitment and Hiring of Employees and Vetting of 
Volunteers 
Page 5 
Section V 
Procedures and Responsibilities of Officials 
Page 7 
Section VI 
Program Procedures 
Page 8 
Section VII 
Specific Program Procedures 
Page 8 
Section VIII 
Procedures for Class 3 Law Enforcement Officers 
Page 10 
Section IX 
Training Requirements 
Page 11 
Section X 
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect 
Page 13 
Section XI 
Important Information Regarding Reporting Suspected 
Abuse Under New Jersey Law 
Page 14 
Section XII 
Acknowledgment and Receipt and Review of Policy 
Page 15 
Appendix A 
Indicators of Child Abuse and Neglect 
Page 16 
Appendix B 
Recognizing “Grooming” Behavior 
Page 18 
Appendix C 
Frequently Asked Questions 
Page 19 
Appendix D 
List of Qualified Vendors for Background Checks 
Page 25 


iii 
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OF  
BOROUGH OF WALDWICK POLICY ADDRESSING THE 
PROTECTION AND SAFE TREATMENT OF MINORS 
Employee's Name: 
Department: 
I acknowledge receipt of this Policy Addressing the Protection and Safe Treatment of Minors on 
_____________, 20___.  I have read and understand this Policy.  If there is any provision in the 
Policy that I do not understand, I will seek clarification from the Borough Administrator or the 
Borough Attorney. 
______________________________________ 
____________________ 
[Signature of Employee] 
Date 
 


1 
I.
Purpose and Scope
Under New Jersey law, N.J.S.A. § 9:6-8.21, an abused or neglected child is anyone “under
the age of 18 who is caused harm by a parent, guardian or other person having custody or
control of that minor.”  A child who is under the age of eighteen (18) is considered abused or
neglected when a parent, caregiver, another child or another adult does one of more of the
following:
1. Inflicts or allows to be inflicted physical injury by other than accidental means that
creates substantial harm or risk of substantial harm, and/or
2. Fails to provide proper supervision or adequate food, clothing, shelter, education or
medical care although financially able or assisted to do so, and/or
3. Commits or allows to be committed an act of sexual abuse against a child.
Child abuse can have long-term effects on victims.  A lack of trust and difficulty with healthy 
relationships is common, as is a core feeling of worthlessness and low self-esteem.  There 
may even be long-term trouble with regulating emotions that can lead to destructive 
behaviors.   
There are typically four common types of abuse: 

The failure to meet a child’s basic needs, physically or emotionally, which is called
neglect.

The intentional use of physical force that results in injury, which is called physical abuse.

The practice of any behaviors that harm a child’s feelings of self-worth or emotional
well-being, which is emotional abuse.

Engaging in sexual acts with a child including pornography, which is sexual abuse.
Unfortunately, statistics reflect that abuse is all too common in any form. 
In New Jersey, abuse reports involving 80,000 children are filed each year; 50,000 of
those children receive prevention and post-response services.
75% of the cases involve neglect, 18% of the cases involve physical abuse, and 7% of the
cases involve psychological abuse.
55% of the perpetrators are female, while 45% of the perpetrators are male.
Sadly, child abuse is a vicious cycle; 30% of abused children will abuse their own
children.
The statistics and characteristics pertaining to sexual abuse are sobering and equally as 
disheartening: 
“Peer-to-Peer” abuse is by far the most common, where one or more children or
adolescent(s) sexually abuses or inappropriately touches another.  Legally, the abuser
must be at least 4 years older to trigger the statute.  The American Psychological
Association reports this type of abuse is driven by power and dominance, the same


2 
factors that drive bullying within this age group.  In fact, bullying can be a precursor to 
sexual abuse, especially when there is a lack of supervision. 
In contrast, “adult-to-child” abuse is typically thought out and planned, demanding
access, privacy and control.  These three factors demand a specific relationship and
setting; 90% of juvenile sexual abuse victims know their abuser. The scope of the
problem is massive: by the age of 18, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys have experienced sexual
abuse.  From those figures, 88% of those molestations are attributed to individuals with
pedophilia. Pedophilia is a psychotic disorder in which an adult or adolescent
demonstrates a primary sexual attraction to prepubescent children.  It is important,
however, not to confuse pedophilia with actual child molestation, as many pedophiles
never act on their attractions.
Child sexual abusers are not always easy to identify.  Though seven (7) out of eight (8)
molesters are male, their ethnicity, religion, education, and marital status match the
general population.  There is no stereotype, especially because abusers go to great lengths
to blend in.  Only 10% of molesters abuse children they do not know and 68% look to
their own families for victims.
40% of abusers begin molesting children before they themselves reach the age of 15, and
the vast majority before the age of 20.
Adolescent abusers generally begin their acts of abuse on younger siblings.
Most sexual abuse occurs within the family.  Molesters, however, can gain access to
children outside of their own families through employment or volunteer work with an
organization that works primarily with children. This allows time alone with potential
victims and the ability to build trust and credibility.  In fact, child abusers are often
known and respected in their communities for dedication to children.
In terms of a victim profile, it is important to remember that, although there are
characteristics that make some children more vulnerable, every child is in danger.
Abusers may target passive, lonely or troubled children, especially those who live with
stepparents or single parents.  Children between the ages of seven (7) and thirteen (13)
years old are most at risk, and children from low socioeconomic backgrounds or rural
areas are more likely to be victimized.
Molesters engage in behavioral patterns that include “grooming” their victims.  Sexual
abuse is rarely violent.  The molester solicits compliance by winning the victim’s trust.
The abuser may use pet names, give gifts to foster exclusivity and encourage secrets with
the victim.  The molester might spend time with the victim outside of the regular program
or schedule, contact parents to become involved in the child’s life in some capacity, such
as babysitting.  For this reason, many parents are shocked when abuse comes to light
simply because the abuser seemed trustworthy.  Inevitably, the favoritism is not enough
to keep the victim silent any longer, and the abuser resorts to threats—threats that play
off a child’s guilt over the sexual contact.


3 
During the grooming process and abuse, victims often show signs such as sexual
behaviors or the use of strong sexual language that is too adult for their age.  Many
children feel at fault after the abuse and suffer guilt and depression, even resorting to self-
harm.  They may display cuts, scratches or other self-inflicted injuries.  Some children,
however, are naïve and unaware of the gravity of the abusive nature of their experience.
Research shows that children often delay reporting sexual abuse.  They should not be
disbelieved because they waited a long time to seek help.
In the State of New Jersey, every level of government has a role in protecting minors. 

At the State level:
o
State law is enforced through the NJ Family Division of the State court system.  The
court has broad powers including the ability to remove children from dangerous
situations.
o
The Department of Children and Families, specifically the Division of Child
Protection and Permanency, combines all state operations intended to safeguard
children into a single, coordinated program working closely with the Courts, legal
advocates and law enforcement.
o
The Department of Corrections operates adult prisons and youth correctional centers
to manage perpetrators, while individual counties operate youth detention centers and
special purpose schools.

At the local level:
o
Educational professionals have significant contact with children; they are often the
first to detect issues.
o
Housing Authority employees may also frequently have contact with children.
o
Municipalities and counties operate or sponsor a variety of programs involving
children including but not limited to:

Recreation programs

Before and After Care programs

Youth sports leagues

Youth centers

Youth in Government programs

Junior law enforcement training programs
o
The role of police and law enforcement agencies is especially important.  Police
officers assist in resolving reported situations, often acting as first identifiers.  In New
Jersey, police are given broad authority to protect children, including the authority to
remove them from their parents or caregivers without a court order if necessary to


4 
prevent imminent danger to a child.  Under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, 
a law enforcement officer must make an arrest when the officer finds “probable 
cause” that domestic violence has occurred.  An arrest must be made even if the 
victim refuses to make a complaint.  The Act is invoked in situations where the victim 
exhibits signs of injury caused by domestic violence, when a warrant is in effect, or 
when there is probable cause to believe that a weapon has been involved in an act of 
domestic violence.  Abusers often use psychological tactics or coercive control over 
their partners, such as making threats to prevent a victim from leaving or contacting 
friends, family or police.  But even if these conditions are not met, an officer may still 
make an arrest or sign a criminal complaint if there is probable cause to believe acts 
of domestic violence have been committed.  If there is no visible sign of injury but 
the victim states that injury occurred, the officer must consider other factors to 
determine probable cause.  
The Borough is committed to the safety of all individuals in its community.  The Borough 
has particular concern for those who are potentially vulnerable, including minor children.  
The Borough regards the abuse of children as abhorrent in all its forms and pledges to hold 
its officials, employees and volunteers to the highest standards of conduct in interacting with 
children.  Statistics show that 93% of victims under the age of 18 know the abuser.  Further, 
a perpetrator does not have to be an adult to harm a child but are typically in a caregiver role. 
They can have any relationship to the child including a playmate, family member, a teacher, 
a coach, or instructor.  
The Borough is fully committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of minors who 
interact with officials, employees, and volunteers of the Borough to the maximum extent 
possible.  This Policy establishes the rules for officials, employees, and volunteers who set 
policy for the Borough or may work with or interact with individuals under 18 years of age, 
and those who supervise employees, and volunteers who may work with or interact with 
individuals under 18 years of age, with the goal of promoting the safety and wellbeing of 
minors.   
This Policy provides standards that apply broadly to interactions between minors and 
officials, employees, and volunteers in programs operated by the Borough or affiliated 
programs or activities.  All officials, employees, and volunteers are responsible for 
understanding and complying with this policy.   
II. Definitions
Authorized Adult:  Individuals, age 18 and older, paid or unpaid, who interact with, 
supervise, chaperone, or otherwise oversee or interact with minors in program activities, 
recreational, and/or residential facilities.  The Authorized Adults’ roles may include positions 
as counselors, chaperones, coaches, instructors, etc. 
Child or Minor:  A person under the age of eighteen (18). 


5 
Department Heads:  Appointed department heads of the Borough, including the administrator 
and any assistants. 
Direct Contact:  Positions with the possibility of care, supervision, guidance or control of 
children or routine interaction with children. 
Dual Reporting:  Reporting possible abuse to both the NJ Department of Children and 
Families and law enforcement at the same time by the individual designated by the Borough 
to report all possible cases of abuse.   
Employees, Staff, or Counselors:  Persons who work full or part-time for the Borough and 
are compensated by the Borough.  
Facilities:  Facilities owned by, under the control of, or rented or leased to the Borough. 
Grooming:  When someone builds a relationship, trust and emotional connection with a child 
or young person so they can manipulate, exploit and abuse them. Refer to Appendix B for 
more detailed information on grooming.   
NJMEL JIF:  New Jersey Municipal Excess Liability Fund Joint Insurance Fund. 
Officials:  Elected officials of the Borough and appointed Board members. 
One-On-One Contact:  Personal, unsupervised interaction between any Authorized Adult and 
a participant without at least one other Authorized Adult, parent or legal guardian being 
present. 
Programs:  Programs and activities offered or sponsored by the Borough. 
Volunteers:  Individuals volunteering their time to provide services to the Borough who are 
not on the payroll and receive no compensation.   
III.
Policy
The Borough is charged with protecting the health, safety, and welfare of all its citizens,
including children under the age of 18.  To that end, the Borough is firmly committed to
protecting children under the care and supervision of the Borough from all forms of physical,
mental, sexual and emotional abuse.  The Borough is committed to establishing and
implementing safeguards to eliminate opportunities for abuse of children entrusted to the care
of the Borough.  The procedures outlined below apply to all Borough officials, employees,
and volunteers.
IV.
Recruitment and Hiring of Employees and Vetting of Volunteers
A. All prospective employees and volunteers will undergo a thorough and complete
background check, including the following:


6 
1.
For seasonal part-time employees, whose job responsibilities include interacting
with minors, including but not limited to lifeguards, camp counselors, coaches, and
instructors:
a.
National Database Criminal History Search
b.
National Sex Offender Search
c.
Social Security Trace/Validation
2.
For all other employees, whose job responsibilities include interacting with
minors:
a.
National Database Criminal History Search
b.
National Sex Offender Search
c.
Social Security Trace/Validation
d.
Education Verification
e.
Employment Verification
f.
Credit Check
g.
Motor Vehicle Record
h.
Reference Check
Many local governments hire minor children to work in their summer or seasonal 
programs.  It may be difficult to obtain any background information for minors.  The 
Borough will attempt to verify any past employment for minors between 16 and 18 years 
of age, with the consent of the parents or guardians.   
Recognizing that fingerprint identification checks may not yield results in time for hiring 
purposes, the NJMEL assembled a list of qualified vendors for background checks 
through an RFQ process, and the five vendors on the list along with their contact 
information can be found at the following link on the NJMEL website.  A list of the 
vendors has also been included in Appendix D. 
https://njmel.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/RFQ-Results-21-02-background-Check-
Services.pdf 
Written documentation of the background check shall be maintained by the Borough in 
perpetuity.   
B. Background checks that disclose any negative or questionable results must be reviewed
and approved by the Borough prior to the individual being hired and/or working with
minors.  Provisional hiring is not permitted.
C. All prospective employees and volunteers must complete the training adopted by the
Borough prior to starting employment or volunteer service.  In addition to completing the
training course adopted by the Borough, all volunteer coaches must complete the Rutgers
SAFETY Clinic course (Sports Awareness for Educating Today's Youth ™) which is a
three-hour program that meets the "Minimum Standards for Volunteer Coaches Safety


7 
Orientation and Training Skills Programs" under N.J.A.C. §§ 5:52 et seq. and provides 
partial civil immunity protection to volunteer coaches under the Little League Law, 
N.J.S.A. §§ 2A:62A-6 et seq.  The current Rutgers Safety Clinic Course includes a 
module on the sexual abuse of minors.  If coaches completed the Rutgers course more 
than five years ago and it did not have any training on the sexual abuse of minors, the 
coaches will be required to watch the video on the MEL website. Documentation 
verifying that the coaches watched and understood their responsibilities must be kept to 
confirm that the training was completed.   
D. The Borough must annually re-check the Megan’s Law directory for New Jersey to make
certain that current employees are not listed and document the re-check.
E. Once employed, Authorized Adults are required to notify the Administrator of an arrest
(charged with a misdemeanor or felony) or conviction for an offense within 72 hours of
knowledge of the arrest or conviction in order to ascertain the fitness of those employees
and volunteers to interact with children.
V. Procedures and Responsibilities of Officials
Under New Jersey law, an official may be held liable for the abuse or neglect of a child if he
or she fails to implement appropriate safeguards to protect the child while the minor has been
entrusted to the Borough’s care.  Most importantly, recent changes in the law in New Jersey
extended the statute of limitations for child abuse and neglect cases substantially, placing
local officials and employees at far greater risk.
A valid cause of action can be filed by an alleged victim well after the official has left office.
It is, therefore, critically important for officials to establish and monitor policies and
procedures designed to safeguard minors entrusted to the Borough’s care.
Officials of the Borough are required to:
A. Complete the initial training course adopted by the Borough, and any updated/refresher
course, to better understand their legal duties and responsibilities under Federal and New
Jersey law.  The training program will include the following concepts:
1. Recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect of minors.
2. Establishing guidelines for protecting minors from emotional and physical abuse and
neglect.
3. Understanding and being prepared to implement the procedures necessary to
eliminate opportunities for abuse.
4. Becoming familiar with the legal requirements to report suspected cases of abuse.
5. Fully understanding the legal consequences for not being diligent in ensuring
Borough employees adhere to all policies and procedures.
B. Meet annually with all Department Heads to review the “Policy Addressing the
Protection and Safe Treatment of Minors”, and to verify that the administration is


8 
adhering to this policy which includes all the following provisions.  If the policy is not 
being adhered to, it is the legal obligation of the officials of the Borough to implement 
the necessary changes as soon as possible to ensure the policy is followed. 
C. Conduct random and unannounced visits to program sites to observe the setup of the
programs and conduct of Borough employees and volunteers.
VI.
Program Procedures
All Borough programs operated by, sponsored by, or affiliated with the Borough must
comply with the following procedures.  All officials, employees, and volunteers who interact
with or could possibly interact with minors, and those employees who supervise employees
who interact with or could possibly interact with minors, must adhere to the following policy.
VII. Specific Program Procedures
The following policies apply to all programs offered by, sponsored by or affiliated with the
Borough.  As an essential element of compliance with the overall objective of protecting and
addressing the safe treatment of minors, the Borough will:
Establish a written procedure for the notification of the minor's parent/legal guardian in
case of an emergency, including medical or behavioral problem, natural disasters, or
other significant program disruptions.  Authorized Adults with the program, as well as
participants and their parents/legal guardians, must be advised of this procedure in
writing prior to the minor’s participation in the program.  In addition, the Borough will
provide information to parents or legal guardians detailing the way to contact the
participant during the program.
Make certain that all program participants provide a Medical Treatment Authorization
form to the Borough.
The Borough implements the following “Code of Conduct” for employees and
volunteers (“staff members”).
Code of Conduct 

Staff members will always respect the rights of program participants and use positive
guidance techniques including positive reinforcement and encouragement.

Staff members will serve as a positive role model for youth by demonstrating respect,
loyalty, patience, courtesy, tact, and maturity.


9 

Staff members will not transport children in their own vehicles unless they received
written authorization from the child’s parent or guardian.

Staff members will not be alone with children they meet in the programs outside of the
program.  This includes babysitting, sleepovers, and inviting children to their home.

Staff members will always be visible to other staff members while supervising minors.
Any exceptions require a written explanation before the fact and approval of the Program
Director.

Staff members will appear neat, clean, and appropriately attired.

Staff members will refrain from intimate displays of affection towards others in the
presence of children, parents and staff.

Staff members will refrain from texting and posting or checking any social media outlet
while they are working or volunteering.  The only exception is texting to communicate
with another staff member or parent regarding a program issue pertaining to a child.

Staff members are prohibited from buying gifts for program participants.
In addition to the Code of Conduct, the Borough requires the following specific program 
provisions:  
The possession or use of alcohol and other drugs, fireworks, guns and other weapons is
prohibited.
The Borough will set forth rules and procedures governing when and the circumstances
under which participants may leave Borough property during the program.
No violence, including sexual abuse or harassment, will be tolerated.
Hazing of any kind is prohibited.  Bullying including verbal, physical, and cyber bullying
are prohibited and will be addressed immediately.
No theft of property will be tolerated.
No use of tobacco products will be tolerated.
Misuse of or damage to Borough property is prohibited.  Charges will be assessed against
participants responsible for damage to or misuse of property.
The inappropriate use of cameras, imaging, and digital devices is prohibited including use
of such devices in showers, restrooms, or other areas where participants expect privacy.


10 
Under no circumstances are any images of any child taken during any of the activities
conducted or sponsored by the Borough to be shared on any social media platform
without the expressed written consent of a parent or legal guardian.
The Borough will assign a staff member who is at least 21 years of age to be accessible to
participants.  Additional Authorized Adults will be assigned to ensure appropriate levels
of supervision and to ensure one-on-one contact with minors does not occur.
Ensure that children are not released to anyone other than the authorized parent, guardian,
or other adult authorized by the parent or guardian (written authorization on file in
advance.)
Develop and make available to participants and their parents or guardians, the rules and
discipline measures applicable to the program.  Program participants and staff must abide
by all regulations and may be removed from the program for non-compliance with the
rules.
The recommended ratio of counselors to program participants should reflect the gender
distribution of the participants, and should meet the following staffing levels:
1. One staff member for every six participants ages 4 and 5
2. One staff member for every eight participants ages 6 to 8
3. One staff member for every ten participants ages 9 to 14
4. One staff member for every twelve participants ages 15 to 17
Staff members must, at a minimum, inform program participants about safety and
security procedures, rules established by the program, and behavioral expectations.  Staff
members are responsible for following and enforcing all rules and must be able to
provide the information included in this Policy to program participants and be able to
respond to emergencies.
Specific Policy and Procedures for Use of Restrooms by Children/Minors: 

All restrooms must be checked in advance by staff persons before minor children enter to
ensure no other individuals are present.

Staff members (of the same sex) are to stand guard at the doorway to ensure no one else
enters the restroom while a child is there.  Children should not be permitted enter
restrooms in pairs or in groups, unless it is absolutely necessary.

For field trips, staff members must monitor bathroom use by minor children and shall not
permit a child to enter a restroom alone
VIII.
Procedures for Law Enforcement Officers


11 
Law enforcement officers of the Borough  frequently interact with minors in a variety of 
ways.  In addition to the guidance provided by the Attorney General’s office, it is important 
to establish guidelines to assist law enforcement officers in being aware of how to act and 
react in these circumstances.  To that end, the Chief of Police or his or her designee of the 
Borough shall formulate a written policy addressing the safe treatment of minors for 
consideration and approval by the governing body for law enforcement officers who interact 
with minors.  
The policy shall, at a minimum, incorporate and address the following: 
A. Transporting minors in a police vehicle.  Whenever possible, victims or alleged victims
of sexual assault or other crimes, or minors removed from a situation for protective purposes,
shall be transported by two officers (at least one of whom shall be of the same sex as the
victim) in unmarked vehicles that does not have a prisoner compartment/partition.  Officers
transporting a minor for whatever reason shall document starting and stopping mileage
through radio contact.
B. Directives issued by the N.J. State Attorney General pertaining to interaction with minors
shall be incorporated into the policy.
The following provisions from the “Code of Conduct” for staff members will be included in 
the policy for law enforcement officers assigned to work in school settings (i.e., Class 3 
officers): 
A. Officers will always respect the rights of students and use positive guidance techniques
including positive reinforcement and encouragement.
B. Officers will serve as a positive role model for youth by demonstrating respect, loyalty,
patience, courtesy, tact, and maturity.
C. Officers will not transport children in their own vehicles.  Officers will not arrange to see
students outside of school.  This includes babysitting, sleepovers, and inviting children to
their home.  Any exceptions require a written explanation before the fact and approval of
the Chief.
D. Officers will appear neat, clean, and appropriately attired.
E. Officers will refrain from intimate displays of affection towards others in the presence of
children, parents and staff.  Officers shall not buy gifts for students at any time.
F. All officers are required to complete the initial training course offered by the NJMEL JIF,
and any refresher courses.
IX. Training Requirements


12 
Individual training courses have been designed for each of the following categories and all 
officials, employees, and volunteers of the Borough are required to complete training (and 
refresher course training) adopted by the Borough.  All Borough employees will complete the 
training course regardless of whether they interact with children/minors.  Although training 
records will be maintained, each Borough and individual trainees should also keep copies of 
their own training records.   
A. Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Department Heads and Supervisors
All elected officials, appointed officials, department heads, and supervisors shall complete 
the initial virtual training course offered by the NJMEL, “PROTECTING CHILDREN 
FROM ABUSE” and adopted by the Borough, and any updated/refresher course in order to 
better understand their legal duties and responsibilities under Federal and N.J. State Law.  
The course includes the following:   
1. Recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect of minors.
2. Establishing guidelines for protecting minors from emotional and physical abuse and
neglect.
3. Understanding and being prepared to implement the procedures necessary to
eliminate opportunities for abuse.
4. Becoming familiar with the legal requirements to report suspected cases of abuse.
5. Fully understanding the legal consequences for not diligently ensuring Borough
employees adhere to all policies and procedures.
B. Employees and Volunteers
All employees and volunteers (regardless of whether they will be working with children or 
not) shall complete training provided by the NJMEL in the form of the “PROTECTING 
CHILDREN” video on protecting children on the MEL website and found at: 
https://njmel.org/mel-safety-institute/model-policies/protecting-children-videos/ 
Content of course shall include: 
1. Current New Jersey Law pertaining to sexual abuse of minors
2. Recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect
3. Different types of abuse (i.e. Peer to Peer, Adult to Child, etc…)
4. Legal responsibility for implementing and monitoring procedures and employees
5. Reporting cases of abuse
C. Law Enforcement Officers
Content of course shall include:


13 
1. Current status of New Jersey law and directives from the Attorney General for law
enforcement personnel
2. Law enforcement responsibilities
3. Officers in schools
4. Reporting Abuse
X. Reporting Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect
Considering the importance and priority of safeguarding the health and safety of minors, it is
critically important that suspected cases of child abuse and neglect are reported as soon as
possible.  As a government official, employee or volunteer, you are legally required to
report suspected child abuse.
The following procedures will be used in reporting suspected cases of abuse.  The Borough
will also train officials, department heads, employees and volunteers about “dual reporting”
which involves reporting the suspected abuse to local law enforcement in addition to
reporting the abuse to the Department of Children and Families.  Reporting suspected abuse
to local law enforcement is critically important in cases where there is the potential for
violence.
Child abuse is difficult to talk about, especially with victims.  It is important to provide calm
reassurance and unconditional support.  Avoid interrogation and leading questions.  Denial
and embarrassment are common reactions.  Do not display disbelief, shock, or disgust.
Instead, be reassuring and make sure the child knows that he or she did not do anything
wrong.  Reassure him or her that this is not his or her fault and ensure the child knows that
you take it seriously.
Interviewing children to investigate sexual abuse requires highly technical expertise.  Do not
“investigate” an abuse situation.  Do not interrogate the child.  Rather report it
immediately following the procedure below.  The investigation will be undertaken by those
who are trained to undertake this critical task.  Focus on safety as the priority.  If the
possibility of violence against yourself or the child exists, involve the appropriate
professionals or agencies as soon as possible, and report the abuse to local law enforcement.
Under New Jersey law, ANY person having reasonable cause to believe that a child has
been abused, including sexual abuse, or neglected has a legal responsibility to report it
the New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
For ALL elected officials, appointed officials, supervisors, department heads, full or part-
time employees or volunteers:
1. Report the suspected abuse to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
Reports of suspected abuse are also to be reported to the Borough Administrator, unless
he/she is the accused.  Under such circumstances, reports of suspected abuse are to be
reported to the Borough Attorney in addition to the New Jersey Department of Children
and Families.  Please note, reporting suspected abuse to the Borough Administrator or the


14 
Borough Attorney does not fulfill the official, employee or volunteer’s legal obligation to 
report suspected abuse to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families.  Please 
be prepared to include the following information to the extent the information has been 
told to you.   
Who: The child and parent/caregiver’s name, age and address and the name of the
alleged perpetrator and that person’s relationship to the child.
What: Type and frequency of alleged abuse/neglect, current or previous injuries
to the child and the cause of the concern.
When: When the alleged abuse/neglect occurred and when you learned of it.
Where: Where the incident occurred, where the child is now and whether the
alleged perpetrator has access to the child.
How: How urgent the need is for intervention and whether there is a likelihood of
imminent danger for the child.
2. After documenting the information surrounding the alleged abuse, the employee or
volunteer must immediately call the Hotline established by the NJ Department of
Children and Families at 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873).  They are available and will
respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  If a child is in immediate danger, the
employee or volunteer must call 911.  It is not the Borough Administrator,
Borough Attorney, official, Program Director, supervisor, employee or
volunteer’s role to decide whether a case should be reported.  All cases must be
reported.
For Law Enforcement Officers: 
Immediately report any suspected or alleged cases of abuse or neglect to the New Jersey 
Department of Children and Family Services and the County Prosecutor. 
XI.
Important Information Regarding Reporting Suspected Abuse Under New Jersey Law
The following guidelines have been established under New Jersey law, for those reporting
suspected or alleged cases of abuse or neglect.
A. ANY person having reasonable cause to believe that a child has been abused, including
sexual abuse, or neglected has a legal responsibility to report it Department of Children
and Families at 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873).  Calls can be placed to the hotline
anonymously.
B. Any person who, in good faith, reports child abuse or neglect or testifies in a child abuse
hearing resulting from such a report is immune from any criminal or civil liability
because of such action.
C. Any person who knowingly fails to report suspected abuse or neglect according to the
law or to comply with the provisions of the law is a disorderly person and subject to a
fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months imprisonment, or both.


15 
D. When a report indicates that a child may be at risk, an investigator from the Division
of Child Protection and Permanency (formerly Youth and Family Services) will promptly
investigate the allegations of child abuse and neglect within 24 hours of receipt of the
report.
XII. Acknowledgement of Receipt and Review of Policy
All officials, employees and volunteers will sign and date an acknowledgement form that 
confirms they have received and reviewed the Policy Addressing the Protection and Safe 
Treatment of Minors, issued to them by the Borough.  The same process will be used for any 
revised policy issued in the future.  


16 
Appendix A:  Indicators of Child Abuse/Neglect 
The New Jersey Department of Children and Families issued the following guidelines to assist in 
recognizing the indicators of child abuse/neglect.   
Different types of abuse and neglect have different physical and behavioral indicators. 
Physical Abuse 
Physical Indicators 
Behavioral Indicators 
Unexplained bruises and welts: 

On face, lips, mouth

On torso, back, buttocks, thighs

In various stages of healing

Cluster, forming regular patterns

Reflecting shape of article used to inflict
(electric cord, belt buckle)

On several different surface areas

Regularly appear after absence, weekend or
vacation
Unexplained burns: 

Cigar, cigarette burns, especially on soles,
palms, back or buttocks

Immersion burns (sock-like, glove-like
doughnut shaped on buttocks or genitalia)

Patterned like electric burner, iron, etc.

Rope burns on arms, legs, neck or torso
Unexplained fractures:

To skull, nose, facial structure

In various stages of healing

Multiple or spiral fractures
Unexplained laceration or abrasions:

To mouth, lips, gums, eyes

To external genitalia
Wary of adult contacts 
Apprehensive when other children cry 
Behavioral extremes: 
Aggressiveness
Withdrawal
Frightened of parents
Afraid to go home
Reports injury by parents


17 
Physical Neglect 
Physical Indicators 
Behavioral Indicators 
Consistent hunger, poor hygiene, inappropriate 
dress 
Consistent lack of supervision, especially in 
dangerous activities or long periods 
Constant fatigue or listlessness 
Unattended physical problems or medical needs 
Abandonment 
Begging, stealing food 
Extended stays at school (early arrival 
and late departure) 
Constantly falling asleep in class 
Alcohol or drug abuse 
Delinquency (e.g. thefts) 
States there is no caregiver 
Sexual Abuse 
Physical Indicators 
Behavioral Indicators 
Difficulty walking or sitting 
Torn, stained or bloody underclothing 
Pain or itching in genital area 
Bruises or bleeding in external genitalia, vaginal 
or anal areas 
Venereal disease, especially in pre-teens 
Pregnancy 
Unwilling to change for gym or 
participate in PE 
Withdrawn, fantasy or infantile behavior 
Bizarre, sophisticated or unusual sexual 
behavior or knowledge 
Poor peer relationships 
Delinquent or run away 
Reports sexual assault by caregiver 
Emotional Maltreatment 
Physical Indicators 
Behavioral Indicators 
Habit disorders (sucking, biting, rocking, etc.) 
Conduct disorders (antisocial, destructive, etc.) 
Neurotic traits (sleep disorders, speech disorders, 
inhibition of play) 
Behavior extremes: 
Compliant, passive
Aggressive, demanding
Overly adoptive behavior:
Inappropriately adult
Inappropriately infant


18 
Appendix B – Grooming Behavior 
Grooming is when someone builds a relationship, trust and emotional connection with a child or 
young person so they can manipulate, exploit and abuse them. 
Here are some common characteristics of someone attempting to “groom” a child. 
Molesters often refer to their intended victims by pet names, use gifts to foster exclusivity
and build a relationship that includes keeping secrets.
The molester may spend time with the victim outside of the regular program or schedule,
contacting parents to become involved in a child’s life in some capacity, like babysitting.
For this reason, many parents are shocked after learning about abuse simply because the
abuser seemed so good–too good to be true, in fact.
Inevitably, when favoritism is not enough to keep the victim, the abuser resorts to threats that
play off of a child’s guilt over the sexual contact.
During the grooming process and abuse itself, victims often show tell-tale signs including:
o
Sexual behaviors or strong sexual language that is too adult for their age.
o
Many children feel at fault after the abuse and begin to suffer guilt and depression, even
resorting to self-harm.
o
Also look for cuts and scratches or other self-inflicted injuries.


19 
Appendix C – Frequently Asked Questions Concerning the Model Policy 
1. Is the Model Policy for the Protection and Safe Treatment of Minors mandatory ?
Yes, the policy is mandatory for all NJMEL members. 
2.
Can the Model Policy be modified ?
The model policy is a guide that includes recommended “best practices” based on
research conducted by the Safety Director’s office, in consultation with the NJMEL
attorney and other experts, including a noted Child Psychologist.  The form and content
of the policy may be modified, so long as it is approved by legal counsel.  The model
policy includes certain elements that should not be modified or deleted. Before making
any significant modifications or deleting any portions of the policy, it is recommended
that officials consult with and seek an opinion from their local attorney.
3. Are background checks mandatory for minors ?
It may be difficult to obtain any background information for minors.  For minors between
the ages of 16 to 18 who will be working with children, we recommend acquiring as
much background information, including a check of all work references, if any, and a
copy of their driver’s license.
4. The model policy specifically mentions a “fingerprint” background check.  Is that the
only acceptable method ?
No.  Municipalities and counties may also conduct a background check themselves or
through a third-party agency, as long as that background check includes a criminal
history check of all 50 states, a review of the applicant’s motor vehicle history, a check of
Megan’s law directory for NJ and other states where the applicant or volunteer has lived,
and a credit check. (See pages 5-6).  The NJMEL put together a list of qualified vendors,
which can be found in Appendix D.
5.
Why is a credit check recommended ?
A credit check is recommended because credit check results include a listing of the
applicant’s known addresses for at least the past 20 years.  This information is of value in
the following ways:
a.
If a job application required a listing of all known addresses for the past 20
years, and an applicant failed to disclose that information, a prospective public employer 
would be justifiably concerned about the applicant’s honesty and would have immediate 
grounds to disqualify the applicant. 


20 
b.
For individuals working with children in a paid or volunteer capacity, the
out-of-state addresses on the credit check would provide a basis to check Megan’s Law 
websites for the other states.   
Please note that credit checks and background checks should comply with the New 
Jersey Fair Credit Reporting Act and in accordance with the guidance from your legal 
counsel.   
6. Do we have to conduct background checks on volunteers ?
The recommended “best practice” is to treat volunteers who work with children the same
way as prospective paid employees are treated for background checks. Unfortunately,
there are many claims in which volunteers have been accused of sexually molesting
minors.  However, appointed board members, such as Planning and Zoning board
members, and other similar board members who do not work with children in any
capacity may be considered for exclusion.
7. The model policy states, “background checks that disclose any negative or questionable
results must be reviewed and approved by the (local unit type) prior to the individual
being hired and/or working with minors. Provisional hiring is not permitted. “  What
constitutes “negative or questionable results,” and who makes the final determination on
whether to hire the individual or permit the volunteer to participate ?
a.
Some examples of “questionable results” would be:
i. Any results from a criminal history check that do not agree with the
applicant’s statements on their job application, such as arrests or
convictions not listed.
ii. Reference checks with prior employers that do not match the applicant’s
information.
iii. Refusal to allow an employer to check with former employers may be a
“red flag.”
iv. An unexplained “blank space” in an applicant’s employment history.
v. Personal reference checks that reveal negative information about the
applicant.
vi. Any information that proves to be false on the job application.
b.
It is a local decision as far as who decides to hire the individual or permit the
volunteer to participate.  In many, if not most municipalities, the public employer’s chief


21 
administrative officer is responsible for making that decision or making the final 
recommendation to hire someone or accept an individual as a volunteer.  However, that is 
a local decision.  We recommend that local communities establish appropriate guidelines, 
standards, and an appeal process with respect to decisions not to hire an individual or 
volunteer to participate based on the outcome of a background check. 
8. If there is a break in seasonal employment, do the background checks need to be re-run?
Is there an acceptable “break in service time” ?
Many municipalities run background checks every year regardless of whether the
employee has worked there in the past, and that is a “best practice” from the standpoint of
protecting the municipality; however, as far as what the acceptable frequency is for
conducting background checks on seasonal employees, that is a local decision. There is
no absolute time frame in the policy pertaining to a “break in service” for the requirement
of new background checks for seasonal employees because that is a local decision.
9. Do background checks carry over from other entities? For example, if, a school teacher,
teaches a class for the Borough, can we use or assume his/her background check is valid
and satisfies our needs ?
Unless the local government entity has access (i.e., a copy or certification from the other
entity) to the background check, we would be reluctant to recommend acceptance. If a
problem arises in the future concerning an employee, I am not sure that reliance on a
background check from another employer would  be a sufficient defense. It would be best
to check with your local attorney on this issue before accepting a background check from
another entity.
10. If a municipality does not have a police or fire department or hold any recreational
activities and does not have any programs that hire children, is this policy still required to
be adopted?
We recommend that the municipality adopt the policy and complete the training.
Unfortunately, municipalities sometimes find themselves named in cases like this by the
plaintiff’s attorneys, even though the municipality has nothing to do with the matter. By
adopting the policy and completing the training, you will be able to provide
documentation of that as part of any defense.
11. Who is required to take the training ?
All municipal officials, employees, and volunteers are required to take the training.


22 
1.
Elected officials, managers, administrators, supervisors, and department
heads must complete the Virtual Instructor-Led training. The course is
available through the NJMEL Learning Management System, and classes
are scheduled periodically. Please note: Elected and appointed officials,
supervisors, and department heads who already attended the course
offered by the NJMEL at the NJSLOM conference in November of 2019 or
any of the webinar sessions conducted by the Safety Director’s office or
Risk Managers up to now have already complied with this MEL
requirement.
2.
Police superior officers will receive training as part of their annual or
semi-annual training provided by the Safety Director’s Law Enforcement
Risk Control Unit.
3.
All other employees and volunteers, regardless of whether they work with
children or not, must view the 20-minute video available through the MEL
MSI Learning Management System.  Please make sure you register to
view the video to document your training.
12. How often is “refresher training” expected ?
For existing employees, we recommend refresher training every two years.  New
employees should receive training before they begin work.
13. Should every volunteer or employee sign off on the entire policy ?
All Employees and volunteers should be required to read the entire policy and, at a
minimum, sign off on the Code of Conduct.
14. Our municipality does not operate any recreational sports leagues.  Other outside
organizations are fully responsible for the leagues; however, the sports leagues are
conducted on our fields and facilities.  Is our municipality still accountable for any claims
that arise ?
Even if your municipality does not directly operate recreational leagues, if the activity 
occurs on fields or facilities owned by the municipality, it is more likely than not that the 
municipality may be brought into any litigation or claim.  For that reason, the 
recommended “best practice” is for municipalities to draft and enter into written 
agreements annually with the organizations who are operating the leagues that set forth 
the following at a minimum: 


23 
i)
Insurance requirements, including a copy of a Certificate of Insurance for the
organization naming the municipality as an additional insured and including a
“hold harmless” clause.
ii) A certification by the organization that they have read the Model Policy and
will adhere to conduct requirements, including mandatory background checks
for all coaches and volunteers involved in the program. Completing the
Rutgers Safety Course (or acceptable equivalent course) by all coaches,
viewing the MEL Protecting Minors video, and adherence to a “Code of
Conduct” for all coaches and parents.
iii) The permitted dates and hours of use for the facilities and a requirement that
the organization will keep the fields clean and safe for use.
A Model agreement is available on the NJMEL website.  
15. Our Lifeguards have separate male and female locker/shower rooms, but the
locker/showers do not have stalls for privacy. We have employees aging from 16 to 70
years old. What protocols would you recommend that the municipality implement to
protect the minors while in the locker/shower rooms? The MEL’s model policy speaks to
the procedures for the use of restrooms used by minors. Should we follow the same
procedure as the locker rooms?
It is essential to make sure that the municipality recognizes and implements a policy
addressing the lifeguards who are minors that acknowledges the need to separate them
from the adult-aged Lifeguards. If the municipality follows the Model Policy
recommendations for the use of bathrooms, that should be more than sufficient to protect
the minors working as Lifeguards.
Questions Raised by Library Personnel Concerning How the Policy Impacts Library 
Operations 
Do the provisions in the Model Policy apply to daily library operations when children are
present ?
Most of the “best practices” in the model policy were written for organized programs
sponsored or conducted by a local governmental unit.  All of the provisions would apply,
for example, to programs sponsored by or conducted by the library or third party
individuals in the library.  Examples of these types of programs would be story hours,
tours of the library, arts and crafts programs, and educational programs.  If parents or
guardians attend any of these programs along with children, and children are not left on
their own, then the library would not be acting “In Loco Parentis” in those situations.


24 
However, if children are dropped off for whatever purpose, the library will need to 
provide safeguards to eliminate opportunities for abuse, including but not limited to 
monitoring bathrooms and making sure that children are not left alone in portions of the 
library where they are vulnerable. Appropriate library personnel should be assigned to the 
critical task of monitoring these areas.   
Also, it is vitally important for the library to follow the hiring guidelines and training 
requirements pertaining to employees and volunteers in light of the number of children 
who typically use the library.   
Can the library request that parents opt out of any photo opportunities and/or social media
exposure for their children instead of asking permission any time the Library wants to do
so ?  The Library uses such photos and social media exposure as a way of advertising
their programs.
This would be acceptable as long as the library would be able to document that:  (1) parents
and guardians have been made aware of the policy (i.e., have adequate notice) and (2) the
library maintains copies of the “opt-out” documentation (i.e., signed “opt out” forms).


25 
Appendix D – List of Qualified Vendors for Background Checks Developed by the NJMEL 
Through an RFQ Process June 2021 
Found at:  
https://njmel.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/RFQ-Results-21-02-background-Check-
Services.pdf 
Castle Branch, Inc 
1844 Sir Tyler Drive 
Wilmington, NJ 28405 
Phone:  888-723-4263 
Email: rfp@castlebranch.com 
Adam Safeguard 
1187 Washington St., 
Suite # 2 
Toms River, NJ 08753 
Phone: 732-506-6100 
Email:  terrih@nsshire.com 
Southern Background Services 
7 Lattimer St. 
Hazelhurst, GA  31359 
Phone:  912-205-3113 
Email:  ddukes@southernbackgrounds.com 
TABB Inc. 
PO Box 10 
555 E. Main St. 
Chester, NJ 07930 
Phone: 908-879-2038 
Email:  bbodkin@tabb.net 
True View BSI, LLC 
25 Newbridge Road 
Suite 210 
Hicksville, NY 11801 
Phone:  516-289-0275 
Email:  wmanning@trueviewbsi.com