If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or the New York State Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 342-3720.

Westchester County Child Protective Services investigates allegations of child abuse and neglect when a parent or caretaker is directly responsible, or allows it to occur. Our mission is to protect children, support families, and create a safer community.

Baby Safe Haven: If you are about to have a baby and don’t want anyone to know, Baby Safe Haven provides designated safe places where you can bring your newborn and speak with someone who can help.

Protect the Kids Committee: This committee was created to recommend stronger protections against sex offenders and to ensure consistency in sentencing and monitoring. Keeping Westchester a safe place for children is a shared priority.

Safety at Home: Child safety starts at home. Being aware of hazards helps prevent injuries. Learn more through our Safety Tips for Children brochure (available in Spanish).

Recognizing Child Abuse

Abuse often shows as a pattern of behavior, not a single incident. Bruises or injuries alone do not always indicate abuse—look for repeated warning signs.

Physical Abuse occurs when non-accidental harm is caused by hitting, slapping, burning, or similar acts. Signs include injuries to both sides of the body, frequent unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns, aggressive or disruptive behavior, and fear of going home.

Sexual Abuse involves a child in sexual acts or exposes them to sexual activity. Signs include genital injuries or pain, symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, sexually inappropriate behavior or language, and victimization of other children.

Neglect (Maltreatment) is the failure to provide for a child’s basic needs despite having the means. Signs include malnourishment, fatigue, poor hygiene, inadequate clothing or medical care, frequent school absences, and being left without supervision.

Emotional Abuse is a harmful pattern of behavior affecting a child’s emotional health. Signs include extreme withdrawal or aggression, severe anxiety, self-destructive behaviors, delays in language or thinking, or constant belittling and threats.

How to Report Abuse or Neglect

Call the New York State Central Register at (800) 342-3720 (available 24/7). Reports may be made anonymously. Certain professionals are mandated reporters by law and must report suspected abuse.

Investigation Process

Reports are investigated through interviews, observations, and fact-finding. The investigation determines if abuse or neglect occurred, what services the family may need, and whether the report is “indicated” (credible evidence found) or “unfounded.” All investigations are completed within 60 days.

Prevention

The most effective prevention strategy is open communication between parents and children. Screen babysitters and daycare providers, stay involved with your child’s care, and encourage your children to share concerns. Westchester also partners with programs like Code Adam in public buildings and the New York State Amber Alert Plan to protect children from abduction.

Getting Help

You do not need proof to report suspected abuse—suspicion is enough. Reports are confidential, and your identity is protected. Children are not usually removed from their home immediately unless absolutely necessary.

Special Units

The Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) handles all child sexual abuse cases in Westchester. This team includes CPS workers, law enforcement, and the Child Advocacy Center at the Westchester Institute for Human Development for forensic exams and interviews.

The Child Advocacy Program is a collaboration between CPS, the District Attorney, County Attorney, Police, and medical professionals. It minimizes trauma for children by reducing repeated interviews and ensuring coordinated protection.

Contact Information

Report Abuse (24/7):

• NYS Child Abuse Hotline: (800) 342-3720
• Mandated Reporters Hotline: (800) 635-1522

Westchester CPS Office:
10 County Center Road, 2nd Floor, White Plains, NY 10607

Local CPS Office: (914) 995-6028 (Weekdays, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Emergency Services: (914) 995-2099 (Nights, weekends, holidays)

Learn more at the New York State Office of Children Protective Services