Sex Crime Prevention

1. Sex Crime Prevention

2. Sex Crime Prevention Overview The best protection against sex crime is an informed public. Providing more information to the community to protect itself and increasing awareness and understanding can be a significant step toward the reduction of sex crimes in Vermont. The following slides give a brief insight into some of the issues and measures that communities can take to promote a safer living environment.

3. Effective Prevention Strategies Look Beyond the “Tip of the Iceberg” Sex Offender Registries, Media and Word of Mouth Known Unknown Sex Offenders

4. Effective Prevention Strategies Look Beyond the “Tip of the Iceberg” (cont.) • It is important to understand that the sex offender registries are simply tools to help enhance public awareness and they only provide information about specific known sex offenders. • Doesn’t include those who were convicted prior to the law going into effect • Doesn’t include those who have yet to be caught • Doesn’t include those convicted and still incarcerated.

5. What Do Victims Tell Us?Kilpatrick et al. (2003). National Survey of Adolescents.Victim reporting of sexual crime 86% of Sexual abuse not reported to the authorities *some cases reported to more than one authority

6. What Do Victims Tell Us? (cont.)Victims’ Greatest ConcernsKilpatrick, Edmunds, Seymour (1992). Rape in America. • Family knowing about the sexual assault 71% • People thinking it was his/her fault 69% • People outside the family knowing about assault 68% • Name being made public by the news media 50%

7. What citizens can do to protect themselves and their children • If you receive notification that a known sex offender is living in your community this is a good time to: • reinforce family safety planning • discuss specific concerns about this offender • be observant, vigilant and aware of your surroundings • get involved in your Neighborhood Crime Watch program • work with local Law Enforcement

8. What citizens can do to protect themselves and their children (cont.) • Talk about more than just “Stranger Danger”. • Be aware that 90% of sex offenses against children are committed by someone known to the victim. • Be aware that 66% of sex offenses against adults are committed by someone known to the victim. • Keep open communications with kids • Indicate that you need to be informed of any inappropriate touching • Assure your children they will be believed • Talk to your children about the dangers of internet predators • Restrict or monitor instant messaging and chat group participation

9. What citizens can do to protect themselves and their children (cont.) • Be vigilant for behavior changes in your children that may be indicative of some problem • Are they abnormally moody, distraught or reclusive • Does their interest in school or outside activities change • Do they neglect or change their friends • Be observant of other people that may display signs of deviant sexual preferences and behavior (including within your own home and neighborhood) • Be aware of any inappropriate conversation • Be aware of any inappropriate touching or gestures • Is anyone spending unusually large amounts of time with your child • Is anyone befriending your child in any way – gifts, etc – beyond the norm

10. What citizens can do to protect themselves and their children (cont.) • Be alert for strangers or strange vehicles around your home, schools or playgrounds • Remember that sex offenders can be anywhere but you can minimize crime by limiting offenders’ opportunities.

11. 8 Safety Rules for Children • I always check first with my parents or the person in charge before I go anywhere or get into a car, even with someone I know. • I always check first with my parents or a trusted adult before I accept anything from anyone, even from someone I know. • I always take a friend with me when I go places or play outside. • I know my name, address, telephone number, and my parent's names. • I say no if someone tries to touch me or treat me in a way that makes me feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused. • I know that I can tell my parents or a trusted adult if I feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused. • It is OK to say no, and I know that there will always be someone who can help me. • I am strong, smart, and have the right to be safe.

12. Summary • Reduction of sex crimes can occur with an aware and informed public. • The fact that the majority of sexual offenses are not reported and that the majority of known offenses are committed by someone known to the offender are key concerns for the community. • Don’t be afraid to talk to your children and ensure that they understand the need for open conversation and attention to safe practices to minimize their risk of victimization.

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