Pass Bill to Abolish Statute of Limitations in Child Sex Abuse Cases

Pacific Daily News
August 1, 2016

http://www.guampdn.com/story/opinion/editorials/2016/08/01/our-view-pass-bill-abolish-statute-limitations-child-sex-abuse-cases/87903380/

A hearing on Sen. Frank Blas Jr.’s Bill 326-33 began Thursday and featured testimony from people who supported the legislation. Speakers included the younger brother of a man allegedly molested by Archbishop Anthony Apuron.

A deadline shouldn’t be imposed on justice.

Lawmakers should pass Bill 326-33, which would lift the 2-year civil statute of limitations in child sex abuse cases.

By removing the time restriction for suing child sex abusers, Sen. Frank Blas Jr.’s bill would give victims a better chance to seek justice. Blas recently revised the bill to strengthen it.

During a public hearing on the bill, three former altar boys who accused Archbishop Anthony Apuron of sexual abuse in the 1970s testified in support of the legislation. A man also testified and accused Apuron of raping his brother, a former altar boy.

When the hearing resumed Monday, a man came forward with other clergy sex abuse allegations.

As Guam and other jurisdictions address clergy sex abuse allegations, they are looking at reforms for child sexual abuse laws.

States across the country are extending or eliminating civil and criminal statutes of limitation in child sex abuse cases. The statutes have limited the number of lawsuits and prosecutions against people accused of child sexual abuse.

The national trend in reforms stems from research and a better understanding of child sexual abuse. It may take years, or even decades, for victims to break through the emotional barriers of trauma and to speak up.

Child sexual abuse is a complex problem for victims and the community. A multifaceted approach is needed to right the wrong, to help victims heal, and to prevent further abuse. Lifting the civil statute of limitations is a step in the right direction.

There shouldn’t be an arbitrary deadline for bringing about lawsuits alleging a crime so heinous as child sexual abuse. Victims, who might have to endure a lifetime of pain, should have time to seek justice.