Cruise Line Youth Host Charged with Molesting Child
Earlier this year, a cruise youth host was charged with child molestation. According to the 10-year-old victim and surveillance footage, the 24-year old defendant fondled the boy while playing a game in the kids’ club on the cruise. Once charged, the Defendant admitted to fondling the boy during the game and his case will be heard in court.
The case involving the cruise line employee brings up a variety of safety concerns for parents who take their children on cruise trips. Are kids clubs on cruises safe from sexual predators? How do you protect your children from possible molestation? What are the warning signs of who could be a sexual predator? Here, we’re going to examine some of these questions and what you should do if your child informs you of a molestation claim.
What Are the Warning Signs of Molestation?
Every molestation case is different and not all victims display the same warning signs. However, if you’re a parent, it’s important to know how to recognize some of the most common signs of molestation or sexual abuse, including:
- Visible trauma or injuries
- Bedwetting
- Fear of being left alone with certain people (as a new behavior)
- Age-inappropriate sexual behavior
- Suddenly avoiding the removal of clothing
- Discusses sexual behavior
- Has unusual questions about sexual behavior
It’s important to understand that the warning signs of sexual abuse may vary depending on a child’s age. If you feel like your child is acting strangely and suspect something is wrong, be sure to ask them about their feelings and what’s going on.
What Should You Do With a Molestation Claim
Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to protect your child from sexual abuse. Sometimes the people you trust most turn out to be perpetrators. A few simple ways to protect your children, however, include:
- Always get to know a person before leaving your child in their care
- Ask all daycare and childcare providers for a background check
- Talk to your child about what to do if they feel uncomfortable in a situation
- Remind your child that it’s okay to tell you when they feel uncomfortable
- Teach your child appropriate self-defense strategies
If your child reports that they’ve been touched inappropriately by an adult, there are a few important steps to take to ensure their future health and the safety of other children:
- Express to your child that their experience was not their fault
- Create a safe space for them to talk and tell you about their feelings
- Keep a strong profile to help them feel safe
- Report the information to the appropriate authorities
- Seek professional help for your child (doctors and therapists)
- Obtain a personal injury lawyer to take legal action
Following these steps will put you on the right path toward creating a safe and secure future for you and your child.
Trust an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney With Your Case
If someone you love is the victim of sexual abuse, it’s important to seek the assistance of experienced legal counsel. At The Umansky Law Firm, we have more than 100 years of combined experience with personal injury claims and can help you obtain the settlement and justice you deserve for your suffering.
To speak with a live attorney, call our office or contact us online today. We’re here to help.