The major investigation into child abuse in Torbay continues
By adamjohn78 | Thursday, February 17, 2011, 20:11
The investigation regarding child exploitation in the area is continuing and may involve 20 or more victims. The victims are thought to be young girls aged 12 and above.
-
The investigation into child abuse in Torbay continues. (Flickr.com image by Graham Robertson)
Police said the offences include indecent assault and rape over two to three years and the victims were known to the offenders.
A 19-year-old man arrested this morning in relation to child abuse allegations remains in custody in Torquay and other arrests may follow.
Det Insp Simon Snell said: "Children are completely safe to walk the streets of Torbay. They are not being grabbed off the streets."
Police have been working with the Children’s Safeguarding Board and Children’s Services, Health and Education to provide support to the victims throughout this enquiry.
Specially trained police officers and social workers have interviewed a number of victims. Each child spoken to is being supported by a carefully considered care plan, making use of several agencies’ skills and specialisms.
Officers are continuing to identify potential victims and give them the support they need.
Anyone with any concerns around child exploitation in Torbay is advised to call the police on 08452 777444 and quote ‘Operation Mansfield’.
Comments
Update from police 18/2:
Police say they have had a good response to media appeals for people to come forward.
A spokesman said: “Many calls have been received with information which is proving helpful to the enquiry.
“As part of these phone calls as well as direct contact at police stations, information has been received which may lead to further victims being identified.
“Specially-trained officers and social workers continue to interview a number of victims.”
Det Insp Simon Snell who is leading the enquiry said: “As the enquiry gathers pace, we are seeing our list of victims grow. This is to be expected in a case of this nature.
“We are still speaking with victims today and this is likely to last throughout the weekend and in to next week.
“I would like to re-emphasise that this enquiry is not about child abductions and this is not a case of children being taken off the streets. We believe the victims were known to the suspects in some capacity.
“We would encourage anyone who has not spoken to us already to please come forward with the assurance that any information they provide will be taken seriously.”
Anyone with information regarding child exploitation in Torbay is asked to please call 08452 777444 and quote Operation Mansfield’.
By Paignton_news at 15:20 on 18/02/11
ReportIsn't it terrible, a different society to the one I grew up in!
By It's Party Time at 10:07 on 18/02/11
ReportUPDATE from police 18/2: Jake Ormerod aged 19, of Babbacombe Road, Torquay has been charged with two offences under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, namely engaging/inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and of sexual touching and remains in custody to appear before the Exeter Crown Court this morning.
By Paignton_news at 09:26 on 18/02/11
Report