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Since breaking news of the Sandusky child sex abuse scandal rocked Penn State, victims have begun emerging out of the woodwork. However, not all of these victims belong to the Penn State Perv, but came forward because of. Recent allegations against Bernie Fine (Syracuse Assistant Basketball Coach) are said to be a direct result of the Sandusky case. As more victims find the courage to come forward, more high-profile cases form. This same domino effect happened not long ago in the Catholic Church, crumbling the very foundation of members’ faith. The Boy Scouts of America suffered the same fate, as lawsuits were filed in Oregon; what’s more, teachers have been arrested for molesting students. The plethora of perverts in this country (739,853 registered, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children) is a strong testament that we need strict deterrents for such a heinous act –like Federal Life charges with no statute of limitation!
These sexual predators take the lives of victims, not by death of body, but death of soul. “About 80% of 21 year olds that were abused as children met criteria for at least one psychological disorder” (Childhelp.org, 2011). Many victims self-medicate with drugs and alcohol to reduce shame, guilt, and fear. “As many as two-thirds of the people in treatment for drug abuse reported being abused or neglected as children” (Childhelp.org, 2011); what’s more, many of these addicts never achieve long-term sobriety.
Addiction, coupled with psychological issues often result in an arrest of some type for the victim. “ Children who experience child abuse & neglect are 59% more likely to be arrested as a juvenile, 28% more likely to be arrested as an adult, and 30% more likely to commit violent crime” (Childhelp.org, 2011). Some victims victimize their own children, either physically, sexually, or mentally; in turn, those children grow to do the same. “About 30% of abused and neglected children will later abuse their own children, continuing the horrible cycle of abuse” (Childhelp.org, 2011). Though the percentages are variables, the impact on victim and society are not, making another strong argument for Federal law and penalties.
What is really disturbing about sexual abuse victimization is, most children are molested by someone they know and trust, such as a family member, sports coach, a friends family member, neighbor, priest, youth enrichment program leader, and yes –even a teacher. “More than 90% of juvenile sexual abuse victims know their perpetrator in some way” (Childhelp.org, 2011). More often than not, a family friend is the pervert; a parent’s significant other, a babysitter, a drinking buddy, and even a church member. It’s unfortunate, but if you have children, you MUST be suspicious of every person in you and your children’s lives. Predators specifically search for troubled children who need attention and mentorship; in addition, financially deprived families are a target as well. However, don’t be a fool, a pervert will not discriminate class, color, or financial status, and they just want a child, any child –your child!
So, what can parents do to keep children safe? Educate, educate, and educate! Educate children about signs, signals, tone, looks, touch, sex, verbal and non-verbal communication, offender behaviors and patterns, and, why, when, and who should touch their private parts. Teach courage and the importance of telling an adult if they are fondled, or forced into sexual behavior; what’s more, teach that NOT telling puts others at risk and hinders justice. Additionally, petition the government to make child sexual assault a Federal crime to carry a minimum of life –no second chances! An offender’s second chance could cost your charge their innocence; there is no second chance for that.
In conclusion, Americans must not continue to coddle sex offenders as if they have rights. These perverts lost their rights the minute their IQ failed to exceed past their belt buckle and they raped a child! Maybe if these low-moral pigs had to fear life in Federal prison, and “Bubba” in general population fulfilling HIS sexual desires, then maybe fewer children would be victimized. Furthermore, for those who believe rehabilitation is possible, think of this: If you are heterosexual, could any amount of counseling turn you gay? If you are homosexual, could any amount of counseling turn you straight? In either case, would a short stay in jail change your mind? Of course not, we want what satisfies us, and we have sex with WHO satisfies us. Therefore, you will not change the perverted action of those who desire children. The rape of a child affects every state, community, and taxpayer in this nation and should be considered a federal offense that carries a minimum life sentence with no statute of limitation –period!
References
Childhelp.org. (2011, November 28). National child abuse statistics:
Child abuse in America.
http://www.childhelp.org/pages/statistics?gclid=CMC4k6LC2a wCFQen7QodHElZsA
