NYS Justice Center Reports 30 Percent Increase in Arrests Connected to Abuse and Neglect Cases
State agency shares update on mission during National Safety Month; marks 13th anniversary
The NYS Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs today announced a 30 percent increase in arrests related to abuse and neglect cases from January through May of 2026 (56 arrests in 2026 compared to 43 arrests during the same period in 2025). The increase in arrests reflects new law enforcement training initiatives, coordination with prosecutors, and a commitment to swift and decisive action when wrongdoing is identified.
This most recent reporting trend also comes just in time for National Safety Month – an annual observance throughout the month of June that aims to reinforce safe work habits and encourage open communication about safety concerns. June also marks the 13th anniversary of the Justice Center’s establishment (June 30, 2013).
“This finding underscores the core mission of the Justice Center as it was originally intended when the agency opened its doors in June of 2013. Most people who come to work every day are committed to creating a safe, therapeutic environment for those they serve. At the same time, there are individuals who should not be working in the service systems we oversee,” said Maria Lisi-Murray, Acting Executive Director of the Justice Center. “Governor Hochul has consistently prioritized safety of all New Yorkers as part of her leadership. Our responsibility is to echo that call to service, identify those bad actors, and, when warranted, remove them from the workforce so they cannot perpetuate the cycle of abuse.”
The increase in arrests comes on the heels of launching a new training series geared toward educating law enforcement and district attorneys while also encouraging greater acceptance and understanding when working with victims who have a disability.
In addition to training participants on respectful communications and investigative best practices, the series advises law enforcement on how to report abuse and neglect to the Justice Center.
Providing the public with increased access to data and investigation trends is part of the agency’s renewed focus on transparency and abuse prevention. In recent years, the Justice Center has invested in bolstering its data and quality care staff to ensure reporting trends are promptly identified and shared before more pervasive issues arise.
The Justice Center was founded to restore public trust in institutions charged with caring for New Yorkers who are often vulnerable to abuse and neglect. The agency has jurisdiction over programs operating in the human services sector and conducts independent investigations of abuse and neglect allegations committed by staff. This broad authority is unique to New York and allows the Justice Center to apply a consistent standard of protection across multiple service systems.
Anyone found to have committed acts of abuse or neglect is fully held responsible for their actions. Depending on the severity of the findings, discipline can include mandatory retraining or policy changes by the provider or, for the most serious offenses, a permanent bar from service via the Justice Center’s Staff Exclusion List.
When criminal conduct is suspected, the Justice Center works collaboratively with local law enforcement on investigations and district attorneys’ offices to support legal proceedings and advocate for cases to be prosecuted.
“I can think of no better time to share this development than during National Safety Month – a time to engage in meaningful discussions about safe work practices,” said Lisi-Murray. “New York State remains committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment for those receiving care while ensuring accountability for staff who violate that trust.”
The Justice Center relies on public vigilance to identify risks within the service system. If you spot abuse and neglect occur, we encourage you to promptly report to the Justice Center’s hotline: 1-855-373-2122 or online reporting form.
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About the Justice Center
The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) was established in 2013 by the Protection of People with Special Needs Act. The agency was created to restore public trust in the institutions and individuals charged with caring for certain populations. Through protection, prevention, and advocacy, the Justice Center creates a safer environment for more than 1,000,000 people receiving services across six State Agencies.
