No parent ever wants to imagine their child as a victim of child sexual abuse. Sadly, this is one of the most devastating and life-altering experiences a child and family can endure. When abuse occurs, parents are often overwhelmed and uncertain about where to turn for help.
It’s important to know that you have legal options. Victims and their families can pursue both criminal charges and civil claims against the abuser and any institution that enabled the misconduct. By taking legal action, you not only seek justice for your child but also help protect other children from harm.
At Reinken Law Firm, our compassionate team of attorneys is dedicated to guiding families through these difficult cases. If you need trusted legal support, contact a Connecticut child sexual abuse lawyer today for a confidential consultation.
What is Child Sexual Abuse?
Child sexual abuse is any sexual act involving a minor under the age of 17. It is a criminal offense that includes both contact and non-contact forms of sexual conduct. Sexual abuse is one of the most traumatic experiences a child can endure. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in four girls and one in thirteen boys suffer from child sexual abuse. Shockingly, in 91% of cases, the perpetrator is someone known to the child or family.
Types of Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse can be committed by adults or even older children. Common types include:
Incest
Incest refers to sexual contact between family members. In New York, incest is illegal—even between consenting adults. Sadly, it is one of the most common forms of child sexual abuse, often involving fathers, stepfathers, or siblings.
Pedophilia
Pedophiles are adults who are sexually attracted to prepubescent children. They often groom children and parents by gaining trust through affection, gifts, or offering help (such as babysitting). Once trust is established, they exploit the child and use guilt or threats to silence them.
Exhibitionism and Voyeurism
- Exhibitionism: When an abuser exposes their genitals to a child.
- Voyeurism: Secretly watching a child while they are undressed or in private situations.
Exposure to Pornography
Showing sexually explicit material to minors, whether in person or online, is a form of sexual abuse.
Commercial Exploitation
This includes the production of child pornography, child trafficking, and forcing minors into prostitution for financial gain.
Who are the Perpetrators Child Sexual Abuse?
Perpetrators of child sexual abuse come from all walks of life. They may appear as trusted individuals in families, communities, schools, or religious organizations.
- Family Members: Around 50% of children under 11 are abused by family members. For ages 12–17, the number is 24.3%.
- Clergy: Numerous credible reports highlight abuse by priests and church officials, with many institutions shielding perpetrators.
- School Officials: Teachers, administrators, and coaches have been implicated in thousands of cases where trust is exploited.
- Boy Scout Leaders: The Boy Scouts of America covered up decades of sexual abuse, with more than 60,000 victims coming forward.
Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
Recognizing the warning signs of child sexual abuse is critical to protecting children and pursuing justice.
Physical Signs
- Bruising or injuries to the genital area
- Difficulty walking or sitting
- Bloody or torn underwear
- Rapid weight loss or unexplained medical conditions
Emotional Signs
- Depression, anxiety, or sudden mood changes
- Nightmares and trouble sleeping
- Feelings of shame, guilt, or fear
- Low self-esteem or withdrawal from family and friends
Behavioral Signs
- Poor academic performance or loss of interest in hobbies
- Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviors
- Running away from home or self-harm
- Avoiding certain individuals or refusing to change clothes in front of others
For teenagers, additional red flags include drug or alcohol use, sudden changes in appearance, suicidal thoughts, and unexplained injuries.
If you suspect abuse, report it immediately to the authorities and seek legal help.
Effects of Child Sexual Abuse
Without support and counseling, child sexual abuse can cause lifelong consequences, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Depression, flashbacks, and panic attacks
- Eating and sleep disorders
- Substance abuse
- Increased risk of teen pregnancy
- Chronic health problems in adulthood
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Seeking professional therapy and legal justice can help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
Pursuing Justice with Reinken Law Firm
At Reinken Law Firm, we are dedicated to standing up for survivors of child sexual abuse. Victims are never at fault, and our mission is to hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable. Our attorneys have helped survivors recover millions of dollars in compensation to support their healing journey.
We proudly serve clients across Connecticut with offices in:
- Stamford: 203-428-4272
- Bridgeport: 203-275-0503
- Danbury: 203-491-4404
- Greenwich: 203-580-4207
- Hartford: 860-724-2345
📞 Contact Reinken Law Firm today for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward justice. Survivors deserve to be heard, supported, and compensated for the harm they endured.