A 26-year-old man has been charged with the rape of his seven-year-old cousin in Trelawny.

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) says the incident occurred at the home of the man on Saturday, January 20. The man was arrested and charged on Monday.

Chief Executive Officer of the CPFSA, Laurette Adams-Thomas, says the agency is investigating the incident and will be offering the victim and her family psychological support, as well as any other forms of necessary intervention.

“The trauma of sexual abuse can live with victims for a lifetime; it is absolutely reprehensible. The CPFSA staunchly condemns all forms of child abuse, and as a nation we must prioritise ending abuse against our children, especially as it can affect their mental and psychological development and influence the kind of adult they may grow up to be.

"We must stand up for these young victims, by giving them the necessary support and doing everything we can to ensure that their abusers are held responsible for these acts.” She stated.

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