CISOCA officers outline Child Month outreach, ISO gains and online abuse risks

Senior officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Center for the Investigation of Sexual Offenses and Child Abuse (CISOCA) say Child Month in May is one of their busiest periods, with teams visiting schools for presentations, Read Across Jamaica Day, advocacy activities and student events under the national theme prioritising children’s mental health.

Detective Inspector Debbie Jennings, a senior investigating officer, and Inspector Sherice Johnson, quality assurance officer, told the Force that CISOCA’s mandate centres on child protection, with public education stressing that sexual abuse remains the most reported form of abuse among children. The “It’s All About Me” initiative encourages pupils to express what is happening in their lives so adults can respond.

Officers said creating relaxed, child-friendly spaces at CISOCA offices is essential so young people are not pressured yet feel able to tell the truth. Investigators use books, crayons and drawings when children cannot put trauma into words, and work alongside a CFSA officer. At the CISOCA Kingston facility, victims can access on-site medical examination, support staff and counselling without being shuttled between locations.

Jennings pointed to recent court success, including a Home Circuit conviction this year where a perpetrator received sentences totalling more than 100 years, to be served consecutively up to 20 years. Johnson said arrest rates have risen, staff have gained promotions and training, and CISOCA achieved ISO 9001 certification, improving investigation standards, statements and case files that judges have commended.

They said sexual-offence cases are often difficult because the crimes invade personal privacy, witnesses may be lost when reporting is delayed, and some suspects are known only through social media with few identifying details. CISOCA liaises with CFCD on digital matters when online evidence is removed. Officers report growing trends of children, including some as young as 10, meeting contacts on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram before face-to-face meetings that lead to assault.

Parents were urged to supervise phones and tablets, model good behaviour, listen without shaming children, and report abuse via 119, 211 or 311 or at any police station. Truancy remains a concern, with some youngsters found in compromising situations in homes rather than public spaces. Officers said children who are disabled, deaf or neurodivergent need faster specialist support from partner agencies. CISOCA will refer victims when in-house help is not enough.