September 21, 2026 – Springfield, Massachusetts – Nearly 40 members of Hampden County’s faith-based community recently participated in a hybrid specialized training conducted by the Hampden District Attorney’s Office titled the “Dos & Don’ts of 51A Reporting.”

Under Massachusetts law, a 51A report is a mandated notification made to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) when there is reasonable cause to believe that a child is suffering physical or emotional injury resulting from abuse or neglect. Teachers, school officials, medical professionals, and other designated “mandated reporters” are legally required to file these reports when such concerns arise.

Led by Assistant District Attorney Eileen Sears, chief of the office’s Special Victims Unit, Sears provided information on how to properly file a 51A report and how to respond to suspected child abuse or neglect.

Some of the “dos” shared by Sears include assessing safety for the child, listening and observing, and being prepared to file a 51A and doing it in a timely matter.

The “don’ts” includes being dismissive when a child seeks help, peppering them with unnecessary questions, and collecting evidence, to name a few.

“Knowing the dos and don’ts of 51A reporting is critical to ensuring that concerns about the safety and well-being of children are properly recognized. Unfortunately, many people are unfamiliar with the requirements and responsibilities that come with 51A,” said Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni. “I want to thank ADA Eileen Sears for leading this important presentation and helping our community better understand how we can all play a role in protecting children.”

The Hampden District Attorney’s Office continues to partner with local schools, law enforcement, and community agencies to provide free training and resources that support child safety and mandated reporting across the county. Should your school or organization be interested in hosting a similar presentation, contact Hampden District Attorney’s Office Deputy Director of Community Safety & Outreach Gina Anselmo at gina.anselmo@mass.gov.