From the royal family to some politicians to those on the far right of politics, we are increasingly seeing more and more cases of child sexual abuse being reported. Wherever it is, we must take it seriously and report it. Leaving the children to remain as victims makes us complicit.
A week of intensive proactive policing has underlined the scale and seriousness with which Dorset Police are tackling child sexual abuse across the county.
As part of a national Child Sexual Abuse Intensification Week, led by the National Crime Agency in partnership with the National Police Chiefs’ Council, specialist officers in Dorset progressed investigations, made arrests, secured charges and strengthened safeguarding arrangements for vulnerable children.
Arrests, Charges and Safeguarding
The activity was far from symbolic. Officers were dispatched to Gatwick Airport to arrest a suspect in connection with alleged sexual offences involving a child. In another case, detectives charged a suspect with exposure and outraging public decency offences following a detailed investigation, with the victim updated in person; a small but vital part of victim-centred policing.
During the same week, officers visited a school to speak directly with a child after a third-party report of a sexual offence, ensuring the young person’s voice was heard promptly and sensitively. Elsewhere, officers supported an investigation into an injured infant, interviewing a suspect who was released under investigation while further enquiries continue.
Behind each of these incidents lies painstaking work: gathering digital evidence, safeguarding victims, liaising with families, and coordinating with social services and health professionals. Child sexual abuse investigations are among the most complex and resource-intensive cases police handle, often requiring careful multi-agency cooperation.
Online Abuse a Growing Frontline
In an increasingly digital world, the battle against child sexual exploitation is as likely to be fought on a laptop as on the streets. Dorset Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) made six arrests during the intensification period alone. Each arrest was followed up with safeguarding visits designed to protect children and assess wider risk.
Online offending presents distinct challenges: encrypted platforms, anonymous accounts, cross-border activity and vast volumes of data. Yet the force’s activity during the week demonstrates a proactive approach: identifying suspects, executing warrants and disrupting abuse networks before further harm can occur.
Partnership at the Core
Crucially, the week of action highlighted that policing does not operate in isolation. Officers attended multi-agency meetings to discuss vulnerable children and safeguarding strategies, visited a school on behalf of another force regarding alleged physical abuse, and liaised with partner forces to progress ongoing investigations.
Work also continued within the justice system. Officers attended court and worked alongside the Crown Prosecution Service to move cases forward. Child sexual abuse prosecutions often rely on building robust evidential files capable of withstanding scrutiny, particularly where victims are young or traumatised.
“A Snapshot” of Ongoing Work
Detective Superintendent Jim Beashel described the intensification week as “a snapshot” of the work being undertaken year-round. That snapshot, however, is telling. It reveals a force actively pursuing suspects, prioritising safeguarding, and recognising that combating abuse requires both enforcement and prevention.
He also emphasised public responsibility. Child abuse frequently comes to light through third-party reports: teachers, relatives, neighbours or friends who notice something is wrong. Prompt reporting can make the difference between ongoing harm and timely intervention.
Reporting Concerns
Dorset Police are urging anyone with information or concerns about child sexual abuse to come forward. Reports can be made online via the force’s website or by calling 101. Victims will be connected with specially trained officers. If a child is in immediate danger, the advice is clear: dial 999.
The week’s results send a strong message. Child sexual abuse is not hidden from view in Dorset; it is being investigated, offenders are being pursued, and safeguarding is being prioritised. The challenge is ongoing, but so too is the commitment to protect the county’s most vulnerable.
