Dallas Conference Raises Awareness of Crimes Against Children
The Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center is hosting its annual Crimes Against Children Conference to raise awareness about the alarming prevalence of crimes against children. With the start of the school year, there tends to be a surge in reports of child abuse, making it crucial to address this issue now.
Jennifer Schuett, a survivor and the keynote speaker at the conference, shares her harrowing story to emphasize the importance of communication. At the age of eight, Schuett was abducted from her bedroom window in 1990 and left to die in a field after her throat was slit from ear to ear. Luckily, a group of children playing nearby discovered her and ensured she received the necessary medical attention. After years had passed, DNA evidence led investigators to identify her attacker. Although he took his own life before the trial, Schuett was able to confront him by reading her victim impact statement at his gravesite. Remarkably, her case involved a stranger, highlighting the rarity of such incidents. More often, abuse occurs within the confines of the child’s home.
To combat these distressing crimes, it is crucial to create an environment in which children feel comfortable disclosing instances of abuse. Teachers and counselors play a vital role in this process and are obligated by the state to report any signs of abuse. Often, teachers do a great job in building that rapport with our students, explains Lana Ahrens from the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center. As children return to school, there is a noticeable increase in the number of cases reported to Child Protective Services and law enforcement agencies regarding child abuse.
The conference has gathered some of the most experienced experts in the field to educate law enforcement and other professionals who work directly with child victims. Justin Fitzsimmons, representing the National White Collar Crime Center, aims to equip attendees with the necessary tools to combat these crimes effectively. Establishing open lines of communication between parents and their children, particularly when it comes to social media, is one of the most critical steps in preventing abuse. By engaging in dialogue and asking children to share their interests and explain how various platforms work, parents can gain insights into potential safety risks. This knowledge empowers parents to navigate these spaces effectively and protect their children.
The conference gives encouragement that you don’t have to be afraid to use your voice and speak out, says Jennifer Schuett. Her brave words serve as a reminder that every individual has the power to make a difference in protecting children from abuse.
To further support the cause, the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center offers free online training sessions on how to identify signs of abuse. Everyone can access this valuable resource by visiting their website.
The Crimes Against Children Conference in Dallas aims to shed light on the urgency of addressing crimes against children and emphasizes the importance of open communication and vigilance in safeguarding our future generations. By empowering communities and providing essential training, the conference acts as a catalyst for change, ensuring that children’s voices are heard and protected.
