Tzedek welcomes jail sentences for failing to report child sex abuse
March 26, 2014 by J-Wire Staff
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Victorian Premier Denis Napthine has introduced new laws giving courts the power to jail those who fail to report to the police instances of child sex abuse for up to three years.
Manny Waks
Telling media “No more cover ups, no more hiding, no more sweeping these things under the carpet”, the Premier also announced those in a position of care who fail to report sexual abuse could be jailed for five years.
The legislation became effective this week.
Manny Waks, CEO of advocacy group Tzedek, said: ” Tzedek welcomes this important development within the State of Victoria. It sends a strong, unequivocal message: each and every one of us must report any alleged case of child sexual abuse to the police.
At the same time, we sincerely hope that it is not too late to hold those who have transgressed in a major way – those that have “blood on their hands” – to full account. Irrespective of when mandatory reporting came into effect or that the new legislation has only been introduced now, deliberately covering up for paedophiles who continued to offend is the responsibility of those who enabled this to occur. By now it is blatantly clear that the Melbourne Yeshivah Centre leadership did just that and therefore those responsible must be held to full account. Tzedek stands by its long-standing commitment to continue to pursue justice in this regard.
Tzedek is proud to have been involved in and contributed to the Victorian Government Inquiry.”
