Child sexual abuse ?

Question

Ok I just have a quick question, I was sexually abused by my neighbour when I was 4years to 8years. I don't know where he lives now but I know his name. How do I go about reporting this and will the police actually do anything about it now...

I live in Australia

Answer 1

I am so sorry about that! That is one of the saddest things I have ever heard! My grandma was abused was also by her step father and ended up have his baby at age 14. Did you ever tell you parents? I would go to a police station and maybe ask them how to go about it. I think it is wonderful that you want him to be reported so he cant hurt any more innocent children! I am so proud of you!

Answer 2

The best way would be to look up the closest sheriff's office or police station and walk in, and ask to talk to an officer. Even though it happened along time ago, there usually aren't statute of limitations for that kind of crime and just reporting it could be a tremendous relief for you, so you can try to put it behind you.

Answer 3

How old was the neighbor?  If he was a child as well, in the US, nothing could be done.

Answer 4

Miss 'N',

I am a police officer who works in the field of child protection and investigation. My advice to you is to approach your local police (specifically child protection or juvenile aide or whatever they call themselves in your state). Talk to them, let them assist you in making a decision for yourself. They can assess all the information, and give the options available to you. I can tell you from an investigators point of view, any complaint of child abuse no matter how old needs to be investigated. An historical complaint (such as what you describe) is investigated differently to recent or current abuse, but is by no means impossible to investigate or prosecute.

If you have any questions at all please feel free to email me through answers, and I will help you as best I can.

After speaking to police you may not feel that you want to proceed with any complaint, but it may be a worthwhile step in your own personal healing process. At the very least we can point you in the right direction to get some help to bury your demons.

I wish you every success in whatever path you choose, I hope you find the peace you deserve so much.

Answer 5

I was abused from 13 to 18 but wouldn't talk about it until I was 32. At that time I heard that you couldn't legally do anything if more than 7 years had passed. This put me into a very deep depression for almost 10 years.

I hope that the laws have changed because to be able to report it to the authorities is a great way for closure to begin. I have yet to be able to close the book on my abuse.

Good Luck and you have my prayers.