FAQs • Livingston County, NY • CivicEngage

What is considered abuse?: An abused child is defined as a child less than 18 years old whose parent or person legally responsible for his/her care: Inflicts or allows to be inflicted upon the child serious physical injury by other than accidental means; or Creates or allows to be created a substantial risk of such injury; or Commits or allows to be committed against the child a sexual offense as defined in the penal law.

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Social Services - Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting

1. What is considered maltreatment/neglect?: Maltreatment is defined as a child less than 18 years old whose physical, mental, or emotional condition has been impaired, or is likely to be impaired as a result of a parent or the person legally responsible for the child failing to exercise a minimum degree or care in: Supplying the child with necessary food, clothing, shelter, education, or medical care; Providing the child with proper supervision or guardianship; Un reasonably inflicting, or allowing to be inflicted, harm, or excessive corporal punishment; Using drugs or alcohol to the extent that the parent loses control of his/her actions.

2. What is considered abuse?: An abused child is defined as a child less than 18 years old whose parent or person legally responsible for his/her care: Inflicts or allows to be inflicted upon the child serious physical injury by other than accidental means; or Creates or allows to be created a substantial risk of such injury; or Commits or allows to be committed against the child a sexual offense as defined in the penal law.

3. How do I report abuse or neglect?: If you have reasonable cause to suspect that a child is being neglected or abused, please call the New York State Central Register at 1-800-342-3720. If the information you provide meets the legal criteria for abuse or maltreatment, your report will be recorded and electronically forwarded to the Livingston County Child Protective Services Division for investigation. A CPS worker will be assigned to meet with the family and assess the situation to ensure that the children are safe in the home. The name of the person making the report with be kept confidential.

4. What is a Mandated Reporter?: Hospital personnel, teachers, law enforcement officers, social workers and members of certain other professionals designated by New York State are required by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect and may be subject to legal consequences if they fail to do so. Mandated reporters should call 1-800-635-1522 with information.

5. How can I get Mandated Reporter Training?: The New York State Office of Children and Family Services offers FREE 24/7 online Mandated Reporter Training in Child Abuse and Neglect/Maltreatment Identification. You can register anytime. Use the link below, select "Courses Offered" and then click to register for "Self-Directed Online Training". http://www.nysmandatedreporter.org/