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JAM | May 28, 2023

CISOCA urges sexual abuse victims to speak out

/ Our Today

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The Centre for Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) is urging victims to report cases of sexual abuse.

Head of the St James branch of CISOCA Detective Corporal Natasha Dixon says its office serves as a child-friendly facility for the investigation of such heinous offences.

“Our office provides a safe and friendly environment in which victims can share their experiences without fear or worry of judgement,” explains Dixon, adding that “the provision of a space of this nature enhances the confidence of the children interviewed, enabling them to provide the necessary information to build solid cases,” she said.

Dixon however, expresses her disappointment that despite the availability of this facility, individuals often hesitate to report, fearing their cases will be ignored.

“There is absolutely no truth in this, as the unit diligently investigates every single reported case. We have successfully cleared the majority of rape cases and 60 per cent of all other reported cases,” she reassures.

Dixon is now encouraging everyone to take advantage of this facility, calling on victims, parents, guardians, and anyone with information to report incidences of abuse.

Despite the challenging nature of interacting with victims and hearing their traumatic stories, the team remains dedicated to their cause. Dixon acknowledges the job’s impact on the mental and physical well-being of the investigators but asserts their commitment to continuously dedicate their time and resources to positively impact all who come to them.

In a final appeal, Dixon reminds victims of sexual abuse, “trained officers are here to listen and support you in any way we can. Your voice matters and your information could help us bring the offender to justice and ensure the safety of you and others in similar situations.”

CISOCA says this poignant narrative underscores an earnest plea to the voiceless – to break their chains of silence, to bring the unseen into the light, to transform their painful echoes into symphonies of justice.

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News JAM Jul 20, 2026

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The figures, published in the Economic and Social Survey Jamaica 2025, which was tabled in the House of Representatives on June 30, show that the National Children’s Registry (NCR) received 14,602 reports last year, compared with 13,918 reports in 2024.