Police chief praises sex abuse siblings' bravery (From Watford Observer)

Police chief praises sex abuse siblings' bravery

12:40pm Friday 2nd November 2012 in News By Mike Wright, Chief Reporter

The police chief in charge of child protection in Hertfordshire has commended the bravery of Ian and Wendy Roullier in speaking out about their ordeal.

Detective Chief Inspector Glen Channer said it takes “incredible bravery” for victims to confront their abusers but pledged that the force’s dedicated officers would to all in their power to fight similar cases.

He also said sex abuse within families was not as uncommon as some may think.

Legal restrictions mean the media often cannot fully report the details of sex cases that happen between family members.

However, Mr Channer said those who carry out abuse within families were often the most dangerous predators.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has officers dedicated to history sex abuse cases as victims are sometimes only ready to prosecute their abusers years after the crimes.

He added: "We recognise how difficult it is and how brave people have to be to come forward. That’s why we have specially trained officers to deal with it.

"People may feel like coming forward ten, 20 years later. The oldest case we have dealt with was 60 years old.

"Of course it is highly difficult, but it does not mean we will not take it on." 

If you have something to report Hertfordshire Constabulary’s child protection unit can be reached via its 101 non-emergency telephone number.