Expert: William Silver - 10/27/2009

Question
Hello, my friend Jessica was molested by her brother many years
ago. She never reported it, because she was too scared of him. The fear of her brother and not knowing how her parents would react still keeps her from reporting him. This has caused her some serious psychological damage.

I personally can't believe that someone can commit such a horrible crime and get away with it? Sexual predators usually repeats their offences. What worries me is, how many girls has he molested? How many more victims? How many lives will he detroyed before he is stopped.

We live in south africa, and I'm not sure how the law here compairs to yours..

My questions are, can only the victim report him or can I?
Can he be asked to undergo a polygraph test?
Can she be asked to undergo a polygraph test?
What would the penalty be if he is convicted?

Thank for your help
Christo

Answer
Christo, I can't comment on the legalities of your country, concerning the reporting of rape and molestation charges. Unfortunately, there are probably millions of similar cases, world-wide. The statute of limitations varies widely and penalties are at the discretion of the courts.

Your observations about sexual predators are probably correct. They often experience some sort of abuse and then pass along their experiences to others. Polygraph tests are not always admissible in courts. Really, it winds up that the victim has to report the crime and then local authorities have to investigate it, find evidence and prosecute it. A website devoted to sexual assault assistance is www.rainn.org

The fear, shame and embarrassment, coupled with threats of force/injury are what keep victims from reporting the crimes. The only real action that can be taken for now is that she needs therapy. I have used the EFT process to help alleviate the pain and suffering of sexual abuse quite effectively. Go to the EFT site and read through the categories where people have received great relief from the unresolved traumas of the past, using EFT. The site address: www.emofree.com

These are sad stories for the victims, but there is a way out of the pain and suffering now.

Best wishes,

William Silver
www.back2balance.com