SANDPOINT — As someone who sees the fallout from child abuse too frequently, Bonner County Prosecuting Attorney Louis Marshall is asking community members to consider this month as a time to reflect on what it is like to be a victim.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and April 10-16 is National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

“While criminal defendants have rights, and it is vital we make sure they are afforded their rights, many people don't realize the Idaho Constitution also provides rights to victims. Unfortunately, many people who are victims of crime feel like they are being re-victimized going through the criminal justice system,” Marshall said.

He considers the criminal justice system to be like the old rope swing on Sand Creek. Both act as pendulums.

“Presently, we are all the way out on the rope in favor of criminal defendants,” he said. “Folks from the political left and political right are pushing for reforms to lighten sentences, release offenders from jails and prisons, and punish police and prosecutors for perceived abuse of power. Our TV shows and movies are filled with the wrongfully accused and wrongfully convicted. All of this takes a toll on a group that has been forgotten in the media — victims.” 

His office has started the Courthouse Dog Project for the benefit of child victims who pass through. Ken, a black lab trained for the program, provides some comfort to many of the children.

“I wish we could do more,” said Marshall. “I wish I could stop child abuse, but the truth is citizens in our community are the only ones who can.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers several tips for preventing child abuse. Working to develop strong, nurturing communities lays the groundwork for a safe environment. Characteristics of such

communities include safe, accessible parks where families can spend time together, social services for people in need, safe and affordable housing, clean water and clean air, a DHS tip sheet said.

Being a part of a strong, caring family builds resilience in both parent and child. Families that make social connections ensure that support is available in a crisis. Eating well and exercising keeps family members physically and emotionally strong, according to the social service agency.

DHS also has tips for preventing child abuse. Parents should be active in their children's lives, keeping track of where their sons and daughters go and who they are with. It is important for parents to limit personal, one-on-one time between their children and other adults, even those who are familiar, because many predators are people close to the family. Before entrusting their children to an unfamiliar adult, parents should make sure the adult has undergone appropriate screening, the agency said.

Most importantly, parents should make sure children trust them enough to tell them about incidences of abuse without fearing the consequences, according to DHS. Neighbors, friends, teachers and coaches can also help by getting assistance for a child who shows signs of abuse.

“It is extremely difficult for a child to break away from abuse when the overwhelming odds are the abuser is someone they know and oftentimes love,” Marshall said. “I have had too many meetings with women and men who have been victimized as kids and still feel pain for decades afterwards.”

Ideally, National Child Abuse Prevention Month serves to remind people to be vigilant year-round in protecting children's health and well being.

“I would respectfully ask members of our community to pray for our victims and keep our eyes and our minds open. You never know when a suspicion could save a child from a lifetime of emotional pain,” Marshall said.

Information: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/preventing/preventionmonth/