10 tips to ensure children and teens are safe from predators

In the wake of the tragic death of 12-year-old Adriel Moxey found in bushes partially clothed with a cloth tied around her neck, questions have arisen regarding the circumstances surrounding her upbringing and home environment.

Police say they have a 32-year-old man in custody and are questioning him in connection to the assault and murder. She was found dead on Wednesday afternoon, in the community she lived, and attended school and church, after she failed to turn up after a 6 pm Junkanoo practice session.

She was reported missing the next day after her mother woke at 3 am and realized Adriel was not home.

Questions have arisen about how the situation could have been avoided and what the community could have done to offer more assistance to Adriel even though the home was unsafe.

Protecting children from sexual abuse is a critical concern that requires vigilance and a proactive approach from everyone in the community. Here are some ways you can help safeguard other children from harm.

These are measures you can take to ensure each child’s safety:

*Know where your children and teens are when school is dismissed and ensure they are safely tucked in bed or their rooms before you go to bed.

*Be alert to changes in a child’s behavior that may indicate abuse, such as sudden withdrawal, anxiety, unexplained anger, and not wanting to go home. Recognizing these signs early can lead to quicker intervention.

*Be aware of who lives in your area and any concerns that may have been raised. While not all offenders are known or registered, staying informed through local community meetings and resources can be beneficial.

*Build a strong community network where neighbors look out for each other’s children, reinforcing a collective effort to protect the youngest members.

*Implement a neighborhood watch program that includes monitoring for suspicious activities and individuals who may not belong or are behaving unusually around children and teens.

*Create safe places for children and teens to play and hang out, and ensure they are always supervised by trusted adults. Encourage group activities rather than allowing children to play or walk alone in isolated areas.

*Teach them about appropriate and inappropriate behavior from adults. Foster an environment where children feel comfortable talking about their experiences and feelings.

*If you suspect a child is being targeted or is sexually assaulted, report it to the authorities immediately. It’s better to be cautious and report than to overlook potential dangers.

*Teach children about personal safety in a way that’s age-appropriate. They should know who to turn to if they feel uncomfortable or threatened.

*Explain the concept of consent to children and the importance of setting personal boundaries. Let them know it’s okay to say “no” to unwanted touch or attention, even from people they know and trust.