11 February 2005

Ecpat Commends Action Taken Against Child Sex Offenders

The Department of Internal Affairs yesterday announced another conviction of a child sex abuse offender.

The conviction of Shane Harris of Timaru for the distribution of pictures and movies of children being sexually abused brought the total number of convicted child sex offenders to 155.

Mr. Alan Bell, Director of ECPAT NZ commends the vigilance of the Department of Internal Affairs and noted that on average more than two New Zealanders are being convicted each month. “This should spell out a very clear warning that offences of child sex abuse are not tolerated in New Zealand. It also reinforces that the protection of our children from such abuse and working towards a society that does not tolerate sexual abuse and exploitation of children is the responsibility of every citizen. The fact that there are this many convictions and that the rate is consistent is a stark reminder that we need to be alert to the danger and take every measure to stamp out this unacceptable behaviour.”

ECPAT is a not for profit organization working towards a world where children live free from sexual abuse and exploitation.

ENDS

© Scoop Media