What happens once a suspected case of abuse and neglect is reported?
Once a report of suspected child abuse and/or neglect is made and accepted in New York State, an investigation is initiated by the local child protective services unit and a determination is made as to whether the case is unfounded or indicated. If the case is deemed to be unfounded (there was not enough credible evidence to substantiate the alleged abuse), the case is closed. If the case is indicated, the process of diagnosis, protection and intervention begins. The goal is to begin the process of helping families heal by providing protective and/or preventive services, and if necessary, initiate court action and/or take the child into protective custody to protect the child from further harm.
