Newborn found in White Plains ShopRite restroom, police investigate
WHITE PLAINS, New York (WABC) -- Police in White Plains are trying to determine who left a newborn baby inside a supermarket restroom.
Officers say someone called 911 after discovering the infant in a restroom at the ShopRite in City Center Sunday morning.
The baby was taken to White Plains Hospital and is now in stable condition.
Police say the quick actions of the person who found the newborn may have saved the child's life.
A Critical Reminder: The Safe Haven / Abandoned Infant Protection Act
The Department of Public Safety in White Plains would like to emphasize the availability of New York State's "Safe Haven" law, designed specifically to prevent tragedies like this and to ensure the safety of newborns.
Under the Abandoned Infant Protection Act, an individual will not be held criminally liable for child abandonment if they ensure the following conditions are met:
- The child is not more than 30 days old.
- The child is left with the intent that they remain safe from physical injury and receive proper care.
- The infant is left in a "safe haven" location-such as a hospital, police station, or fire station-or with an appropriate person.
- The individual promptly notifies an appropriate person of the infant's location.
- It is vital for the community to know that these actions can be taken safely, legally, and-if requested-completely anonymously. There is no shame in seeking help, and there are resources available to ensure the safety of both parent and child.
If anyone has any information on the investigation, you can contact the White Plains Police Department at 914-422-6111.
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