Assault on CPS worker shows dangers of job

WHITE PLAINS – CSEA leaders and activists from the Westchester County Unit are calling attention to the dangers involved in our work as public servants after aCSEA member was attacked and injured while performing her job as a child protective services caseworker.
The woman, a longtime CPS worker in one of the county Department of Social Services satellite offices, was performing what’s most commonly known as a removal – taking custody of a child to be placed in foster care after it was determined the child could not remain with his or her custodial parents due to safety concerns.
While at a local hospital picking up an infant to be placed into foster care, a man attacked the worker while she was inside the hospital performing her job. The worker suffered multiple injuries and was home recovering after receiving medical treatment.
“This incident reminds us that even in a secure hospital setting, our caseworkers still face dangers on the job,” said Unit President Kwabena Manu. “People should know that CSEA members work in some of the most challenging of situations. Emotions run high when a child is being removed from parental custody and this is one example of what can happen.”
Manu noted that he and other union leaders are working with CSEA’s Occupational Safety and Health Department, both to investigate this incident and explore where additional safeguards can be put in place.
Phone calls from our members with concerns about the injured worker came in from across county work sites, Manu said.
“Everyone’s thoughts are with our union sister as she recovers,” said Manu.