Ex Sunnyvale School Teacher Arrested on Suspicion of Child Rape
An ex-teacher at a Sunnyvale middle school was taken into custody on Monday, April 11th on suspicion of child rape. He was questioned in connection with an alleged sexual assault that occurred more than ten years ago. Upon invitation for questioning, he was detained on suspicion of child rape that allegedly took place in 2009, according to the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety. Phillips was then transferred to Santa Clara County Main Jail on many counts, including aggravated sexual abuse of a minor and forceful penetration of a minor with a foreign object.
The suspect, Anthony James Phillips, 61, had left classroom teaching three years ago, but investigators say he’s been spending his time coaching softball and basketball at Sunnyvale’s Fremont High School. Several people wonder if the justice system is failing the people and if children are not being protected.
The police ask that anyone else who might want to come forward call Detective Mary Cayori at 408-730-7100.
Is the California Justice System Failing Child Sexual Abuse Victims?
There is no easy answer when it comes to child sexual abuse and the California justice system. Some argue that the system is failing child sexual abuse victims, while others insist that some of the onus also lies with the victims themselves.
One thing that is clear, however, is that child sexual abuse is a very serious issue. According to statistics, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually assaulted before they turn 18 years old. Furthermore, about 90% of all juvenile sexual assault victims know their attacker.
When it comes to prosecuting offenders, many challenges arise. For starters, children are often reluctant or afraid to come forward and report abuse. In fact, according to RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network), only about 30% of all child sexual assaults are reported to authorities.
Suspicion of Child Rape – What Should Victims Be Encouraged To Do?
When a child experiences sexual abuse, it is important that they know they are not to blame. Victims should be encouraged to speak out about the abuse and get help from a trusted adult. It is also important to encourage victims who may be too traumatized to speak to keep a journal in order to document any thoughts or feelings they have about the abuse. This can be helpful for victims when seeking counseling or therapy.
The Role of Parents
The role of parents in the prevention of child sexual abuse cannot be overemphasized. Parents are the first line of defense in protecting their children from sexual abuse. There are many things that parents can do to help protect their children, including talking to their children about sex, teaching them about their bodies, and setting rules and boundaries for their behavior. Parents should also be aware of the warning signs of child sexual abuse and know who to contact if they suspect their child is being abused.
Suspicion of Child Rape? Speak to an Attorney
If your child or someone you know is a victim of child rape, it’s important to seek help. Speak to a California child sex abuse attorney at Beck Law P.C. who can help you understand your legal rights and options. Our California child sex abuse lawyer understands that it is crucial to take allegations of sexual assault seriously and we will do everything in our power to provide support for victims so that they can receive the justice they deserve.
