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Hernando Today

DCF: Even If It's A Hunch, Call It In

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By KYLE MARTIN

Hernando Today

Published: February 13, 2009

SPRING HILL - Neighbors had their suspicions about the house on Whitmarsh Street.

Particularly, they were concerned about the boy who lived there. He always acted withdrawn and shy around other children. His adopted mother worked him like a slave in the backyard planting flowers and trees, according to neighbor Pat Guttman.

But neither did they believe that her actions constituted abuse. And what some consider strange behavior may be the norm for another person. In the end, no one called the cops.

Guttman questioned her inaction on Wednesday when she learned her neighbor was accused of beating her adopted stepson and locking him in the bathroom for two years.

Tai-Ling Gigliotti, 50, is charged with aggravated child abuse and false imprisonment.

"It's easy to second guess yourself," said Carrie Hoeppner, director of communications for the Department of Children and Family's Central District. "You never know what's going on behind closed doors."

So when is it appropriate to call an abuse hotline?

There are obvious red flags like bruises or marks that cannot be reasonably explained. But odd behavior is harder to define and citizens might be more hesitant to call in a hunch.

Janice Johnson, operations manager for DCF's Fifth Circuit, says the child's age is something to consider in nebulous situations.

The victim in this case was 16-years-old, but his mother still followed him everywhere outside. That would be age appropriate for a toddler, but not a teenager, Johnson said. Equally curious is that the child seemingly had no friends. Typical teenagers should have at least a small network of companions.

"If it draws your attention and you think something doesn't seem quite right ... you can always call the abuse hotline," Johnson said.

Each anonymous tip is screened to decide whether it stands up to the state law's definition of abuse. If it does, a caseworker is sent to the house to investigate.

Sometimes there's not abuse, but still a need for services. For example, financial hardships or a serious illness in the family could be creating a lot of stress that might ultimately lead to abuse. In that instance, DCF steps in and provides counseling or assists with food stamps.

"Anything can escalate to the point someone loses control," Johnson said, so early prevention is important.

If you suspect a child or an adult is being abused, anonymous tips can be made by calling 1-800-96-ABUSE. Complaints can also be made online at www.dcf.fl.us. As a word of caution, intentionally making a false report is a third-degree felony.

Reporter Kyle Martin can be reached at 352-544-5271 or kmartin@hernandotoday.com.

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