MEDIA RELEASE
25 November 2007

Treatment of Case of Sex With Minor Sends Wrong Message

Family First NZ is shocked and disgusted with CYF and Police after failing to prosecute a 21 year old who admitted having sex with a girl under the age of 12.

“It seems incredible that the police did not press charges on a case which borders on sexual abuse,” says Bob McCoskrie, National Director of Family First NZ. “The crime has been admitted and the suggestion is that the sexual activity began when the girl was only 11.”

“It is also unbelievable that CYF have not pressured the police to lay charges, have removed the child from the family home, yet according to media reports is still allowing the boyfriend to have supervised access.”

“This case sends all the wrong messages to young girls, and to older guys. Family First totally supports Rape Crisis’ opposition to the treatment of this case.”

“At a time when we are trying to send clear messages about rape, sexual assaults, and underage sex, this case flies in the face of all the advice we are trying to give young people. There is a clear imbalance of power between an 11 year old and a 20 year old and the law recognises this.”

“That’s why the penalty for this type of action carries a maximum prison term of 14 years. This is a serious crime.”

“The failure to prosecute suggests that this law is not being applied, and young girls are not being given the protection they need.”

ENDS

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