The Domestic Violence Bureaus of the Virgin Islands Police Department are urging the community to become more proactive regarding the interests and safety of the territory’s children. Their message is particularly significant as the Police Department joins law enforcement and advocacy agencies throughout the territory in recognizing the month of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Data provided by the Department of Human Services shows that for the period October 2006 to March 2007, 205 cases of neglect, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional maltreatment were referred to the Police Department for investigation. 172 cases were referred for investigation during that same time in 2006, representing a 19% increase.

The Domestic Violence Bureau offers the following reminders for preventing child abuse and ensuring the safety of our youth:

• Communicate with your child. Ask questions: Who are your friends and their parents? What is their phone number in case of an emergency? Where do they live?
• Find out who your children talk to on the telephone or online.
• Determine the level of supervision at your child’s extracurricular activities.
• Get to know your children’s teachers or caretakers. Chances are they will be the first to recognize any concerns since your child spends a significant portion of the day outside of your home. Have they noticed any changes in your child’s behavior, attitude, schoolwork, etc.
• Finally, have you noticed any changes in your child? Even changes in hygiene can be an indicator of a greater problem that warrants your attention.

The Domestic Violence Bureaus recommend that anyone who suspects that a child is being abused notify Police or the Department of Human Services.