Safe Place for Newborns Act of 2002
The is committed to the safety and well-being of all newborns. In conjunction with
State law the following policy shall be adhered to in any circumstance where a mother brings their newborn to
the police department with the intent to abandon the child. If an incident as described above occurs, the
responding officer shall:
1. Accept the baby. Georgia law (19-10A-3) states that police stations, fire stations, and medical facilities
will take custody of newborn children to prevent injuries and deaths that are caused by a mother who
abandons them.
NOTE: If there are signs of abuse, the incident should be handled in accordance with state law and
departmental policy.
2. Offer support. If the birth mother surrenders the baby, she is free to walk away, but always offer to connect
her to medical care or social services. Georgia law (19-10A-4) states that a mother shall not be prosecuted
because of the act of leaving her newborn child in the physical custody of an employee, agent, or member
of the staff of a medical facility, fire station, or police station is on duty, whether there in a paid or
volunteer position, provided that the newborn child is no more than 30 days old and the mother shows
proof of her identity, if willing, to the person whom the newborn is left and provides her name and address,
if willing.
3. Notify a supervisor.
4. Document the incident. Any information about the mother should be documented such as race, general
description, and any information provided in reference to the child. Information such as: birthplace,
medical history (if any), physical or developmental problems the child may have to this point.
5. Request an ambulance to the scene for transport.
6. Notify proper authorities for placement. Child Protective Services Intake Communication Center (CICC)
can be reached at 1-855-422-4453. They are available 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week to include
holidays. Through them, a local “on-call” DFACS worker will be notified and placement secured.
7. If any additional information needed the code section for the law is 19-10A-2 through 19-10A-8.
www.gachiefs.com • Page 27 • 1st Quarter Newsletter