Intensive Week of Proactive Policing Targets Child Sexual Abuse in Dorset
A week of intensive proactive policing to tackle child sexual abuse across Dorset Police has delivered significant results, with arrests, charges and safeguarding measures carried out as part of a coordinated national effort.
The activity formed part of a child sexual abuse intensification week led by the National Crime Agency in partnership with the National Police Chiefs’ Council. Investigators in Dorset committed additional resources to progress live investigations, protect vulnerable children and hold offenders to account.
Among the actions taken, officers were dispatched to Gatwick Airport to arrest a suspect in connection with alleged sexual offences involving a child. In another case, officers attended a local school to speak directly with a child following a third-party report of a sexual offence, ensuring the child’s voice was heard as part of the investigative process.
Police also met with partner agencies to address concerns surrounding the care of a three-year-old child. In a separate developing investigation, officers supported enquiries into an injured infant. A suspect was interviewed and later released under investigation while further enquiries continue.
Detectives also secured charges against a suspect for exposure and outraging public decency offences. The victim in that case was updated in person following the charging decision.
Throughout the week, officers worked closely with partner forces to progress ongoing investigations, making arrangements to speak with victims and advancing lines of enquiry. The partnership approach included visiting a school on behalf of another force to speak with a child about alleged physical abuse by a relative, as well as attending multi-agency meetings focused on safeguarding vulnerable children and agreeing protective strategies.
Officers additionally attended court hearings and liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service regarding cases already moving through the criminal justice system.
The Force’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) was particularly active during the intensification period, making six arrests. This enforcement activity was followed by a series of safeguarding visits designed to ensure children were protected and risks were effectively managed.
Detective Superintendent Jim Beashel, of Dorset Police, said: “This week of activity is just a snapshot of the work that we are constantly undertaking to ensure vulnerable children are protected and perpetrators of child sexual abuse are held to account.
“These cases are often complex with a range of partnership working and careful liaison with victims and families involved.
“In an increasingly digital world, we are also working to combat online abuse and raise awareness amongst young people of the risks they face online.
“We all have a role to play in tackling child abuse and we would urge anyone with concerns or information relating to offences of this nature to please report it to us.”
Anyone with information or concerns that a child may be experiencing sexual abuse is urged to report it directly to Dorset Police via the force’s website or by calling 101. Victims will be supported by specially trained officers. In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, always dial 999.
