State by State

New Jersey

2022
New Jersey Data
19
NCANDS Deaths
14
CANDID Deaths
2022 New Jersey Data

Why are these two numbers different?

The CANDID count continues to be updated as new cases are identified in the media or in state-issued reports. States vary extensively in how often child fatalities are covered in the media, and whether the coverage is timely (at the time of death) or delayed (at the time of a criminal trial or conviction). In addition, media tend to report on the most egregious or clear-cut child maltreatment deaths that result in criminal charges. Thus, the CANDID count will miss most deaths that do not result in criminal charges, particularly in the vast majority of states that do not publish maltreatment fatality notifications or reports.

In contrast, the NCANDS count is based on data submitted by the states, which have different definitions of child maltreatment fatality, use different information sources, and vary in their likelihood of investigating or substantiating cases. Therefore, some deaths are excluded because a state uses a restrictive definition of child maltreatment fatalities, fails to consult all available information sources, or chooses not to investigate or substantiate all relevant deaths.

In summary, both the CANDID and NCANDS counts may significantly undercount the number of child maltreatment deaths. If you are aware of specific cases that are missing from the CANDID count or of additional data sources that could be used to update our counts, please contact us.

View New Jersey's Children
What does New Jersey share when children die?
New Jersey does not publish notifications of child maltreatment fatalities
New Jersey does publish individual case reviews or summaries
New Jersey statutes concerning maltreatment fatality disclosures