A family visits someone who appears to be their father in prison. They sit across from each other, speaking through the glass.

Protecting the Innocent

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is committed to protecting the innocent from any situation that may lead to harm or abuse (see Abuse, Life Help, Gospel Library). If you have been abused or feel you are in danger of harm, you should immediately contact local police. You should also contact a trusted person to help ensure your safety.

As the Church promotes caring for those who are incarcerated, this does not diminish the need to protect the innocent and to provide support to those who are victims of crime. It may be difficult for leaders and members who find themselves in a situation where they know both the perpetrator and the victim of a crime. By praying and listening to the Spirit, they can be guided by God in their interactions with everyone involved.

In family situations where trust has been lost, family members can work with treatment providers, Church leaders, and other professionals. They can work together to establish guidelines for preventing problems and for safely establishing contact with incarcerated or previously incarcerated family members. Children, vulnerable individuals, and innocent victims can be protected through proper planning and by implementing rules. If contact between certain family members is not currently safe, plans can be made to avoid interaction until sufficient healing and progress have taken place.