Protecting Children in Kern County from Unsafe Situations
When an aggressor intentionally hurts a minor, whether physically, psychologically, or sexually, including acting negligently, the crime is called child abuse. No child should have to grow up in an unsafe environment and even more so, no form of child abuse is acceptable. If you know are in need of a Bakersfield child abuse lawyer, contact Rodriguez & Associates.
The Bakersfield child sex abuse attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates help children who have been sexually abused get the justice they deserve.
What is Sexual Abuse? According to 1in6.org, “[Child] sexual abuse is the result of abusive behavior that takes advantage of a child’s vulnerability and is in no way related to the sexual orientation of the abusive person.”
A child cannot consent to any form of sexual activity. When someone engages with a child this way, they are committing a crime. In 2018, there were more than 45,000 reports of child sexual abuse in California.
What Does a Perpetrator of Child Sex Abuse in Bakersfield Look Like?
Unfortunately, many perpetrators of sexual abuse are someone that the victim is familiar with. According to the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN), young people are at the highest risk of sexual assault and up to 93% of victims under the age of 18 know their attacker. The abuser may be a family member, a trusted coach or teacher, a caretaker, or even the parent of another child.
By abusing their position of power and influence, an aggressor can inflict lasting physical and emotional damage upon a vulnerable child. They may use many tactics to manipulate the victim to stay silent about the sexual abuse. Oftentimes, the abuser attempts to use their power over the victim to intimidate or coerce the child. They may try to convince the child that the activity is normal. In some cases, they may resort to threats if they think the child will report the abuse to another adult.
Warning Signs of Child Sex Abuse in Bakersfield
There are both physical and behavioral warning signs that can indicate that your child is experiencing a form of sexual abuse. Physical indicators include:
- Bloody, stained, or torn underclothes
- Difficulty sitting or walking
- Burning, itching, or pain in the genital area
- Swelling, bruises, or bleeding in the genital area
It’s also important to stay aware of behavioral changes. These may include:
- Changes in hygiene, such as bathing excessively or not at all
- Sudden phobias
- Signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression
- Trouble in school
- Running away from home or school
- Avoiding physical contact
- Inappropriate sexual behaviors or knowledge
It’s important to seek prompt assistance from our Bakersfield child sex abuse attorneys and other qualified professionals if you suspect that your child has been victimized.
Representing Child Victims of Sexual Abuse in Kern County
Our Bakersfield child sex abuse lawyers handle cases of child molestation, sexual assault, and sexual abuse done by the following:
- Teachers
- Daycare workers
- Coaches
- Religious leaders
- Police officers
- Health care providers
- Foster parents
- Neighbors
- Relatives
- School workers
- Other youth workers
Representing Child Victims of Sexual Abuse in Kern County
If you need legal counsel regarding a child sex abuse case, call us at (661) 777-7575. Our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys are adamant about protecting children throughout Kern County.