Bay City police are urging residents to take an active role in protecting local children by reporting any signs of abuse or neglect. Officials say Texas law requires anyone who suspects mistreatment to contact law enforcement or the state’s child abuse hotline, not just tell a school or neighbor. Reports made in good faith are confidential and protected. Warning signs can include unexplained injuries, withdrawn behavior, poor hygiene, or overly sexual behavior. Authorities stress that residents should never investigate on their own but should call 1-800-252-5400 or police immediately.