NCJ Number
118542
Date Published
1989
Length
97 pages
Annotation
This report discusses the 58 child fatalities from child abuse and neglect in New York City in 1988 that were previously known to the Child Welfare Administration and recommends actions to improve policies or procedures in several areas affecting child protection.
Abstract
The analysis was conducted by 12 private panel members and 4 representatives of public agencies. Fifteen of the children died from homicide, 9 from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, 13 from natural causes, 2 from accidents, and 1 from suicide. The analysis showed many of the families to be extremely disorganized. In addition, many of the problems encountered by child protective services today are really beyond their mandate. Substance abuse was found to be a common factor in many of the fatalities. Recommendations focused on addressing drug involvement and domestic violence, providing greater resources for services, and improving responses to child protective issues. Footnotes and appended agency responses and related materials.