Victims are usually women, elderly persons dependent on the caregiver for basic needs and elderly persons suffering from physical or mental illness. The extent of elder abuse is not completely known and it is estimated only 1 in 4 elder abuse incidents come to the attention of the authorities since most are not reported. The Crimes Against Children Unit investigates the physical and sexual abuse of children, crimes involving a child victim, and missing children, all under the age of 18. If you know or suspect child abuse or neglect report it to your local child protection agency 24 hour hotline at 246-2282 . Your report can be anonymous.
Any child can be a victim of abuse.
As a community we are all responsible for the safety and well-being of our children. As parents, teachers, neighbors, family and friends, we must all work together to protect the right of every child to live in a safe environment. Many services exist in Lexington-Fayette County to prevent abuse, and to help child abuse victims, survivors, and perpetrators to break the cycle of abuse and begin the healing process.