How to Report Child Abuse in New York

Knowing how to report child abuse in New York can have an enormous impact on the life of an abused child.

The Catholic Church covered-up sexual abuse of children by its clergy member for decade upon decade, and the Boy Scouts of America were complicit in the sexual assault and molestation of young boys by BSA scout leaders. This same apprehension stopped people from going to the authorities about Harvey Weinstein’s sexual assaults. This wealthy predator relied on power and influence to intimidate survivors, forcing them to suffer in silence. Knowing all this still makes it no less shocking to hear that one out of every three girls and one in five boys experience sexual abuse or assault before the age of 18. Even more tragic, most victims of child sexual abuse are too afraid to ever tell anyone. 

If you are aware of child abuse, don’t remain silent. Here’s how to report child abuse in New York.

Pick Up the Phone

People struggle with facing potential abusers. Will they lash out? Will an abuser hurt someone who tries to stop them? Don’t let your fears stand in the way of getting help for an innocent and vulnerable child. If you suspect sexual or any other type of abuse, pick up the phone and make the call. You can report your suspicions to the New York State Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment. The phone line is open 24 hours a day.

Not Completely Positive Abuse is Happening?

Are you afraid to make a call because you only have a terrible feeling that a child may be abused? Don’t let that stop you. There’s probably a reason you have that feeling, and it drove you to search for how to report child abuse. You don’t need hard evidence when you call the hotline. Go with your instincts and dial.

A child protection specialist will answer your call. Speak to them about your concerns. If you don’t help that child now, it may be years before they can speak out for themselves. They may never have the courage at all, and the abuser will continue the pattern of abuse.

The good news is the statute of limitations laws are changing in New York so that more abusers are caught and prosecuted. Victims can see some form of restitution.

But don’t wait if you can help now.

What Will They Want to Know?

Just knowing how to report child abuse makes it far less frightening. When the child protection specialist answers your call, they will ask a handful of questions. Here are a few samples.

• The child’s home address, age, and name.
• What types of injuries have you noticed?
• What is the risk of harm to the child?
• Have there been prior injuries to the child that raised your suspicions?
• What are the parent’s names and addresses?
• Who do you suspect caused the harm?

Answer all questions to the best of your ability. Let the specialists handle it from there.

What Happens Next?

The specialist determines whether there’s enough information for a report of abuse. If the answer is yes, the specialist will notify Child Protective Services (CPS).

CPS initiates an investigation within 24 hours of receiving the report.

Now You Know How to Report Child Abuse

Now you know how to report child abuse. If you suspect someone is abusing your child or any other child, please don’t hesitate to report it.

Our fears, doubts, and other concerns often prevent us from doing the right thing. Your call could stop a long cycle of abuse. It could also change a child’s life forever for the better.

Don’t wait to make the call.

Are you or someone you know a survivor of abuse? You could have a case. Contact us for a free case review or call 716-600-0000.