Investigates reports alleging child abuse or neglect. The purpose of Child Protective Services (CPS) is to ensure that children are safe and to prevent any future abuse or neglect through the provision of supportive services. Protects children from physical abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse by their parents and caretakers. Also helps families obtain needed services to guarantee their children are safe from harm. When a child is not safe at home, placement of the child outside the home will be considered. The child's placement may be done on a voluntary basis, with the parents' approval, or on a non-voluntary basis, at the direction of the court. Once a child is determined to be safe, an evaluation of risk or likelihood of future neglect is made. It is then ascertained if any services are needed to ensure that this risk is minimized.