Denise Reid, Freelance Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The St James police have indicated that rape is on the rise in the parish, adding that other sexual crimes, such as carnal abuse, are also becoming more prevalent.

Of greatest concern is that the main victims of these crimes are girls aged 11-18 years. She also identified women who work late night shifts, such as nurses, security guards and hotel workers, as susceptible groups.

More cases this year

"Last year this time, we had 24 cases of rape reported in the parish of St James. This year, the number stands at 31, with two cases of carnal abuse. This time last year, there were no reported cases of carnal abuse, so we are seeing an increase in the number of reports," stated Inspector Mercedes Curry, sub-officer in charge of community safety in St James.

Curry was speaking at Montego Bay's Wexford Court Hotel on the weekend at a seminar which focused on sexual dysfunction in women and sexual assault.

The policewoman also said unscrupulous persons had infiltrated the ranks of cab drivers, using their position of trust to rape vulnerable, unsuspecting women and girls.

The highest incidence of reported rape in St James centred on Montego Bay, in the areas of Dump Up Beach, as well as the residential belt of Westgate Hills, Fairfield and Granville.

Cops raising awareness

Curry added that the police had been visiting schools in an effort to raise awareness. She also urged rape victims to report crimes to specialised units, such as the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse, which have expertise in dealing with trauma.

The inspector conceded, however, that the conviction rate in rape cases was low, adding that "many victims are not so open in speaking publicly about the ordeal."