FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is child abuse a big problem in Jackson County?

In 2019 there were 1012 confirmed victims of child abuse in Jackson County; over half involved children ages 5 and under. Because of COVID and the lockdown, in 2020 and 2021, that number decreased. There were 660 cases of confirmed abuse or neglect in 2021. A little less than half of these cases involved children ages 5 an under. Unfortunately the lower numbers do not mean that abuse/neglect is no longer a problem. These lower numbers reflect the fact that during lockdowns and virtual schooling, children weren't where they could be seen by those in a position to report.

What is the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse nationwide?

At least 1 in 10 children will be victims of sexual abuse by the time they reach their 18th birthday. 1 in 7 girls and 1 in 25 boys will be sexually assaulted as children, less than 40% will tell anyone. Nearly 70% of sexual assault victims are under the age of 17 years old. 90% of sexual assaults are perpetrated by someone the victim knows and trusts.

How does the County of Jackson rate in teen pregnancy?

Most of the teen births in Jackson County take place in the City of Jackson. The birth rate for under 20-year-olds in 2020 was 22.7 per 1000 births, compared to a State rate of 14.8 per 1000.

What is the Jackson County's infant mortality rate?

The infant mortality rate in 2020 was 5.3 per 1000, compared to a State rate of 6.6 per 1000.

How much of a problem is poverty in Jackson County and how does that relate to abuse and neglect?

Parental anxiety and depression about financial issues can negatively affect their children, and the burden of poverty can increase abusive and neglectful behaviors. In 2020 in Michigan, 16.8% of children live in poverty; Jackson County, it is also 16.8%. Jackson County is ranked 38th out of 83 counties.