The Monsey community has been shaken in recent days following the disturbing incident in which a USPS mail carrier assaulted a 4-year-old child. While many residents expressed appreciation for the swift response by Ramapo Police, including an arrest and felony charges, frustration quickly followed over what many viewed as an unnecessary escalation involving Child Protective Services.

Numerous residents voiced concern over the decision to notify CPS in the aftermath of the incident, questioning whether it was warranted given the circumstances. The situation has sparked broader conversation throughout the community, with many saying this is not the first time such actions have raised concern and calling for clearer judgment in sensitive cases involving victims.

In response to these concerns, Monsey Scoop reached out to the Ramapo Police Department for clarification.

Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman provided the following statement:

“Police officers are one of many professions in New York State designated as mandated reporters under the guidelines established by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). These guidelines are publicly available through the OCFS website, including the mandated reporter resource materials that outline when and how a report to the Statewide Central Register (SCR) must be made.

Under New York State law, a mandated reporter is required to contact the SCR when there is reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been abused or maltreated by a parent or person legally responsible for their care. OCFS guidance makes clear that proof is not required. The standard is reasonable suspicion, and reporters are encouraged to make the call even when information may be limited. Specially trained staff at the SCR evaluate the information provided and determine whether it meets the criteria to be registered as a report. If it does not, they will not accept the report and will explain the reason for that determination.

It is equally important to understand that failure to report when required can result in criminal charges against the mandated reporter. As such, these decisions carry significant responsibility.

At the same time, we recognize that not every situation rises to the level of a mandated report. There are circumstances where families may be better supported through community-based resources and services, and we remain committed to connecting residents with those supports whenever appropriate and legally permissible.

The Ramapo Police Department does not take mandated reporting lightly. As a New York State accredited law enforcement agency for 22 consecutive years, we are continually reviewing and strengthening our practices. We are in the process of implementing a written policy that adds an additional layer of supervisory consultation prior to contacting the SCR. This ensures that each situation is carefully evaluated by the senior most supervisor in command of patrol during the shift, while still maintaining full compliance with New York State law and the obligation to protect children.

This is one of the areas where recurrent training is critically important. The Ramapo Police Department will include refresher training on this topic for all officers as part of this year’s training program.”

Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht also addressed the matter, stating:

“Ramapo fully understands the implications when a report is initiated through the police department. The Ramapo Police Department is implementing a policy in which mandated reporters shall consult with a police commander to ensure that circumstances are thoroughly evaluated. This approach provides an additional supervisory perspective and helps determine whether the situation meets the reporting threshold or requires further investigation.

In all cases, we have been assured that actions taken will remain in full compliance with New York State law. This policy is being established in the interest of protecting the welfare and safety of our residents, while ensuring that decisions are made thoughtfully, responsibly, and with appropriate oversight.”

Officials emphasized that these updates are intended to ensure compliance with state law while addressing community concerns and reinforcing thoughtful, well-balanced decision-making in sensitive situations.