Sexual Concerns
If you or a family member is a victim of a sexual crime, the first thing you should realize is that you are not alone. The Glastonbury Police Department’s Youth Unit has specially trained investigators that work with the family and victims. When a report of a sexual assault is made to the Glastonbury Police, the victim’s safety and their well-being is our first priority. Physically and emotionally surviving a sexual assault can be a long stressful journey. The Glastonbury Police Youth Unit not only investigates these crimes but can be a resource for the victim or the victim’s family.
Anyone who is or knows a victim of a sexual crime should make contact with the listed resources. Get the facts and resources that are available to assist you.
Teen sexuality:
Statistics show that our young people are being forced to grow up faster than ever before. Children are getting involved in sexual activity at very young ages. Parents need to be aware of these trends and communicate with their children.
l If you are concerned that your child is acting out sexually there are people who can help. Town agencies like the Police Department’s Youth Unit or Youth and Family Service can answer questions or help you find the answers
l If you are concerned about sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy, assistance is always available. If you need information or support please make contact with your family doctor or the agencies / links listed below
Sexual Crimes
What are some of the signs that could indicate a Sexual Abuse situation?
l Vague complaints of stomach pain, headaches, or any illness that there is no medical reason for
l Urinary tract infections
l Bed wetting
l Obsessive sexual acting out
l Wide mood swings: happy/sad, calm/angry
l Problems with peer relationships
l Sudden withdrawal or acting out with family and friends
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l Not wanting to visit friend/relative that was agreeable before
l Suicide gestures or attempts
What do I do if a teen tells me he/she is a victim of a Sexual Assault / Abuse?
l Don’t panic! This will only upset the teen
l Tell the teen you believe his/her story
l Call the Rape Crisis Service. Counselors available on the 24-hour hotline can be helpful and supportive for both you and the child answering questions you both might have. They can accompany you to the police, court, or hospital for support. This service is free and confidential! (1-888-999-5540)
l Call the police. Letting the authorities know can only help the situation even if you decide not to press charges
l Don’t shower or clean up, this will affect evidence collection, in case an investigation in pursued
l Help the child talk about his/her own feelings at his/her own pace
l Tell your child that it’s not his/her fault and you’re happy they told
l Seek professional counseling services for the victim and the family
Tips for Parents
Chances are you started to teach your children safety rules as soon as they could move about – rules like “don’t touch the hot stove”, and “don’t run into the street”. Every child learns about “not taking candy from a stranger”.
Here is another set of safety rules to teach your children the difference between affection and abuse; between good touching and bad touching. Your willingness to talk about sexual abuse with your children can be the first important step in preventing it from ever happening.
l Find out what your children know about good and bad types of touching. By asking about it, you let them know it is okay to talk about these things
l Be simple and specific when talking with your children. Be sure they understand what you mean
l Be calm and matter of fact. This information does not have to be embarrassing. It is okay to tell your children that this is a difficult topic for you to talk about – they will know this from your attitude anyway
l Encourage your children to trust their feelings. Tell them that it is okay to say NO to ANYONE who touches them in a hurting or confusing way, and that they should always tell you about it
l Encourage your children to come to you with any and all questions. Let them know that you are approachable, and LISTEN to what they say
l Teach your children that it is wrong to keep secrets about touching. Let them know whom they can tell
l Teach your children that it is wrong for another person to touch them inappropriately on their private parts under or over their clothing
l Teach your children that it is wrong for them to be forced into looking at or touching another person’s private parts
l If your children are afraid to be alone with someone, such as a relative or babysitter, FIND OUT WHY! Most abusive touching is done by someone the children know
l Teach your children that you will believe them when they come to you with problems about touching – and mean it!
If a disclosure is made you can contact any of the local/state resources listed below.
Supporting Agencies and Links:
l Glastonbury Police Youth Unit 652-4280 www.glasct.org (public safety link)
l Glastonbury Police Victim Services 652-4212
l State of Connecticut Office of Victim Services 1-800-822-8428
l Sexual Assault Crises Hotline 1-888-999-5545
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