Trinidad court denies bail to man for sexually assaulting his 3-year-old stepdaughter

A 42-year-old man in Trinidad and Tobago, charged for sexually assaulting her 3-year-old stepdaughter, has been denied bail in a virtual court. The identity of the man has not been revealed following security reasons.

As per the police report, between the time period of May 31 and July 1, 2019, the man forced her stepdaughter to perform oral sex on him, which was seen by the girls’ brother, who later informed his grandmother about the incident after which the old lady made the police report to the Eastern Division Child Protection Unit – (CPU).

The case is heard in Sangre Grande Magistrate’s Court. The next hearing will take place on – November 25, 2021. WPC Williams-James has charged the 42-year-old with one count of sexual penetration of a child and abuse of trust and familial relationships.

The investigation is led by Guy-Alleyne. While leading to the arrest of man on Wednesday, Guy-Alleyne stated that “I am urging anyone who has information about children being abused, physically or sexually, to come forward with the information—whether you are a family member, relative, neighbour, anyone who has information, come forward with the reports and let the matters be investigated”.

Alleyne, two weeks before, highlighted the cases of child sexual abuse and noted that around 1,800 cases had been registered in her unit between teh time-period of January 1, 2020, and September 31, 2021.

Guy-Alleyne noted that from these cases reported, 142 accused were arrested, with 377 charges being laid in the year of 2020 and 166 people being arrested, and 407 charges laid so far in this year. Out of all the sexual penetration was one of the most common offences that have been reported, and in most of the cases, the victim knew the perpetrator.

She further noted that the victims or their knowns can make a complaint through the – TTPS’ online reporting platform by calling 800-TIPS, 999, 555, any police station or using the TTPS app or their social media platform, if they