Six-year-old raped at daycare

Asix-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a 15-year-old boy in St Ann. The infant, according to the Ocho Rios police in St Ann, was at a daycare facility when the accused barged in on her in the bathroom where he sexually assaulted her and subsequently had sexual intercourse with her.

The incident reportedly occurred on January 27.

Children’s Advocate Diahann Gordon-Harrison yesterday told THE STAR that although the accused boy is a minor, the law allows for him to be charged. A child, 12 year old and older, can be charged for an offence.

“Unfortunately, this is not the first time that we are seeing a child being charged for assaulting and interfering with another one. It is early days yet, but as with these matters, what would have to happen is that it is placed before the court with the guidance of the court, all the requisite safeguards will have to be observed,” she said.

“When you have allegations of these nature it is always very difficult because you are dealing with two minors, but you have to weigh, in the scale of justice what’s appropriate and what’s best for both children involved, to see that the issue can be properly ventilated, “Harrison said.

Meanwhile, the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) says it is providing support to the child.

“The CPFSA was made aware of this incident through a report made to our National Children’s Registry. An investigation was immediately launched into the incident, and the victim’s family was contacted and support offered. The child was also referred to the Victim’s Services Division for counselling and psychosocial support.”

“The CPFSA and the Ministry of Education and Youth continue to speak out against all forms of child abuse. This incident is particularly devastating because the abuser is also a child, but we stand firmly with the victim and her family and stay ready to offer any additional support that they may need,” the agency said.