Something is “wrong” with persons who sexually molest children – DPP

With Guyana recording one of the highest numbers of rape cases in the Caribbean, Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali-Hack on Friday posited that people who sexually molest children suffer from mental illnesses.

This statement was made at the American University of Peace’s Eight Convocation ceremony, which was held at Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown.
“There are a lot of cases that come in especially sexual offences, and we are overwhelmed by the number of cases. Without any knowledge, it seems to me it is only natural that something is wrong with people to be interfering with children,” she said.
Moreover, she added that with the number of rape cases that are on the rise in Guyana, psychologists are very much needed.
“Your study is in demand and you will have a lot of work to do, I urge you to be fair and confidential, to be impartial in your application and in your handling of your clients”, she told the students.
Ali-Hack also said that the issue of child molestation is not only happening in Guyana, but it is also evident around the world.
“This is happening on a very regular basis throughout society, it cuts across all religions, class, creed, that you can think of. It has no borders, it has no boundaries”, she vocalised.
Meanwhile, she said that the Guyanese society is always quick to jump to violent reactions, and it is only persons who dwell in our society that can attest to the fact.
“I see fathers before me every day and it bothers me, people seem to have so much anger and they have no tolerance, and no patience and they are quick to jump to violent reactions… if you’re living in this society you would realise this”, she added.
Nevertheless, the Director urged the new graduates to apply the knowledge they have acquired into the execution of their duties, now that they are about to venture out into the world of work.