A Children’s Services worker showed up at the Portsmouth Police detective offices with a troubling report: a child with visible bruises on her arms who claimed the marks came from a teacher at school.
According to CPS, the child said the teacher touched her shoulder to get her attention during class. The bruises were located on the back of her biceps, appeared to be in the healing stage, and the child reported the incident happened the same day. With those details in hand, CPS asked police to take a closer look.
Why Investigations Matter
Even when details may seem minor, every allegation of abuse involving a child is taken seriously. Police and CPS both stress the importance of following through on these reports without jumping to conclusions. Investigations ensure that children are protected, while also safeguarding teachers, parents, or caregivers from unfounded accusations.
Video Tells the Story
In this case, detectives reviewed available classroom video. The footage showed the teacher gently touching the child’s shoulder—consistent with normal classroom behavior. Nothing indicated abusive conduct, and officers determined no report was needed.
The case illustrates the balance authorities must strike: taking every report seriously while relying on evidence to determine the facts.
