Report Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation

Report Concerns for Abuse and Neglect of Children and Elderly in Fairfield County

The Protective Services Department accepts referrals with concerns for children and elderly 24 hours a day 7 days a week.


Child Abuse and Neglect Concerns

  • Phone number 740-652-7887 Monday-Friday 8am-4pm
  • On-Call availability outside of business hours through the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Department 740-652-7900 

Elderly Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Concerns

  • Phone number 740-652-7887 Monday-Friday 8am-4pm
  • On-Call availability outside of business hours through the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Department 740-652-7900
  • Make an Online Referral: aps.jfs.ohio.gov

Who Should Report?

Protecting children and the elderly from abuse and neglect is a community responsibility. If you suspect harm, neglect, or abuse, please report it to Protective Services. You do not need direct evidence; reasonable suspicion based on observations or information from others is sufficient. Ohio law protects individuals who report in good faith.


What Happens After a Report?

  • A Screening Decision Maker reviews the information within 24 hours to determine if it meets criteria for assessment/investigation.
  • If screened in, a caseworker is assigned to complete the assessment/investigation.
  • If not, the referral is stored electronically for future reference.
Child Protective Services (CPS)

Services Include:


Family Team Meetings: Collaborative sessions with families, service providers, and natural supports to develop realistic and achievable plans for child safety and stability.


Permanency Roundtables: Meetings focused on identifying the best plan to move toward permanency for children, involving both agency staff and external consultants.


Parenting Time Services: Structured opportunities for parents to maintain bonds with their children during agency involvement.


Voluntary Family Support Services: Development and implementation of case plans with families to ensure children's safety and well-being.


Prenatal Services: Support for pregnant women struggling with substance abuse, including linkage to recovery services and development of a Plan of Safe Care.


Youth Engagement: Empowering youth in decision-making processes related to their lives, including participation in case planning and access to independent living services.


Adult Protective Services (APS)

Eligibility: Fairfield County residents aged 60 or older who are at risk or victims of abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation, regardless of income.


Services Include:

  • Investigation: Assessment of allegations of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.
  • Supportive Services: Provision of or referral to services aimed at reducing risk and promoting independence.
  • Community Collaboration: Working closely with social service agencies, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and community organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Can APS force an adult to accept services?
    No. Competent adults have the right to refuse services.
  • Does APS take guardianship?
    APS does not take guardianship but may work with the court to establish appropriate guardianship through other means.

Community Outreach & Training

Available Presentations:

  • Overview of child and elder abuse and neglect
  • Mandated reporting laws and responsibilities
  • Screening guidelines and referral processes
  • Foster care and adoption information

Local Resources: Fairfield 2-1-1


Contact for Training Requests:

Heather Funk: (740) 652-7689