In 2024, Lancaster County saw a significant increase in substantiated child abuse reports, while Berks County experienced a decline, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). Lancaster County reported 276 confirmed cases, the second highest in the state, trailing only Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Berks County's reports dropped by over 30 cases, totaling 122 substantiated incidents.
Statewide, there were 4,756 substantiated cases of child abuse, with 60 resulting in fatalities. The total number of suspected child abuse reports across Pennsylvania was 41,070, marking an increase of approximately 700 from the previous year. About 11.6% of these reports were confirmed as true.
The DHS report highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to child protection. Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of DHS, emphasized that preventing child abuse requires cooperation across government departments, community members, and families. She stated, "Protecting our children cannot solely be the task of one agency or office."
The report also noted that 82 near fatalities were substantiated in 2024, compared to 119 in 2023. The DHS encourages anyone suspecting child abuse to contact ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313. Every allegation reported to ChildLine undergoes investigation.
For more information on child abuse reports in Pennsylvania, visit the official DHS website.