CPFSA investigating rape of 7-y-o girl by cousin in Trelawny
TRELAWNY, Jamaica— The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) has launched an investigation into the alleged rape of a seven-year-old child by her 26-year-old male cousin in Trelawny.
The incident reportedly occurred at the man’s home on Saturday, January 20, 2024. The man has since been arrested and was charged on Monday, January 22, a news release from the CPFSA said.
“The CPFSA was made aware of this incident and we have launched an investigation into the matter. We will be offering the victim and her family psychological support, as well as any other forms of necessary intervention,” said Laurette Adams-Thomas, chief executive officer (CEO) of the CPFSA.
“The trauma of sexual abuse can live with victims for a lifetime; it is absolutely reprehensible. The CPFSA staunchly condemns all forms of child abuse, and as a nation we must prioritise ending abuse against our children, especially as it can affect their mental and psychological development and influence the kind of adult they may grow up to be. We must stand up for these young victims, by giving them the necessary support and doing everything we can to ensure that their abusers are held responsible for these acts,” the CEO continued.
Adams-Thomas went on to remind and encourage people to report any and all forms of child abuse using the 24- hour child abuse reporting hotline 211.
She also informed that child abuse reports may be made through WhatsApp/text at 876-878-2882, e-mail report@childprotection.gov.jm or by visiting any CPFSA parish office, or through its social media pages (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) @cpfsajm.
