Who should an officer contact if they believe a runaway child is abused or neglected?

Who should an officer contact if they believe a runaway child is abused or neglected?

• A. ACS
• B. Desk Officer
• C. Pediatrician
• D. School counselor

Answer: (A)

When a runaway child is believed to be abused or neglected, the officer should involve the city’s child welfare system. In New York City, that agency is the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). ACS is responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect and coordinating protective services to keep the child safe. Contacting ACS ensures the case is handled by the proper authorities who can assess safety, determine next steps, and work with families and other partners. The desk officer is an internal precinct contact, while a pediatrician or school counselor may encounter the situation or file their own reports, they are not the primary agency to initiate the protective investigation. If there is immediate danger to the child, call 911.

When a runaway child is believed to be abused or neglected, the officer should involve the city’s child welfare system. In New York City, that agency is the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). ACS is responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect and coordinating protective services to keep the child safe. Contacting ACS ensures the case is handled by the proper authorities who can assess safety, determine next steps, and work with families and other partners. The desk officer is an internal precinct contact, while a pediatrician or school counselor may encounter the situation or file their own reports, they are not the primary agency to initiate the protective investigation. If there is immediate danger to the child, call 911.