Child Abuse and Constitutional Rights

by JWC
(Canada)

A Santa Monica English-as-a-second-language-middle-school teacher has been charged with 14 felony counts of sexual molestation. The allegations indicate the abuse to students started in late 2004, with the latest having occurred in April 2008.

This has prompted school officials to consider changes to their policies. However, while expressing concern for the safety of the children, the teachers union stated that the teachers also have constitutional rights and expressed a desire that any changes in policy do not violate these rights.

In my view, when it comes to the sexual molestation of children, the perpetrators have no constitutional rights. I know lawyers will strongly oppose my thoughts on this matter, but these children are in a defenseless position and are taken advantage of by their molesters which should negate their (the molesters) rights. Do not mistake my position with the rights of an accused to have a legal defense; but that defense should not include a method for a perpetrator to actually get away with sex offenses against children. We must protect our children, at all costs. Child abuse of any kind is not acceptable.

Darlene's comments to this Child Abuse Article titled "Child Abuse and Constitutional Rights" can be found below.

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