Letter to the Edtior - Sad Statistics

Letter to the Edtior

Sad Statistics

The Southampton Press - November 6, 2008

I personally want to thank Jessica DiNapoli for writing the story about Edward Tellez, who was charged with third-degree sexual abuse ["Authorities Arrest Gymnastic Coach, October 30].

Those who molest children are often attracted to careers in which they can have easy access to those they prey upon. All too often we only hear stories of Catholic priests who molest. The reality is that only 2 percent of clergy (of all faiths) molest. Recent research suggests that 42 percent of all reported cases involve incest. The remaining 64 percent are perpetrated by teachers, babysitters, doctors, therapists, Boy/Girl Scout leaders, camp counselors and coaches -- like in the case of Edward Tellez.

We all need to do our best to protect our children and help those who have already been victimized. The majority of those who were sexually violated as children are unaware of how the offenses affected their lives until they have lived them. The majority of survivors don't come forward until theya re in their 40s, 50s or beyond.

Please help us learn the names of those who abused children in the past by getting involved with upcoming legislation that will allow a civil window, allowing those who have been abused the opportunity to file a civil suit against their offenders. Please contact Joseph P. Byrnes, New York City Metro Chair of SNAP (Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests), at jospbyrnes@optonline.net

Vicki Polin

Founder and CEO

(The International Jewish Coalition Against Sexual Abuse/Assault)

Baltimore, Maryland