A former San Diego Sheriff's Office deputy, Jose Soto, was sentenced to 21 years and 8 months for child sex abuse and possession of child pornography.

The former officer pled guilty to the charges and will be required to register as a sex offender once released from prison. www.nbcsandiego.com (Jan. 08, 2024).

Commentary and Checklist

The safety and trust of children is shattered when a trusted adult or mentor as in this case, a police officer, is a perpetrator. So, it is important that a safe adult listens and is reassuring when a child reports abuse.

When a child hints of, suggests, or even reports possible abuse, including sexual abuse, it is important to remain calm, and find an appropriate place to talk. Make sure the child knows you will protect them and that the abuse is not their fault. Praise them for reporting it, and assume they are telling the truth. Report the abuse to the local child protection agency.

Here is what safe adults should know reporting:

• If a life-threatening emergency exists, dial 911.
• If not a life-threatening emergency, contact a child protective services agency or local law enforcement immediately.
• Get a name, title, department, phone number and email address from your law enforcement and/or child protective services contact. Take notes and preserve your communications with law enforcement and/or child protective services.
• Tell the law enforcement and/or child protective services contact the facts that form the basis of your reasonable suspicion of child sexual abuse. Be prepared to provide dates, times, and names of witnesses. Do not speculate or provide information that you know is false or misleading.
• Follow the directions of law enforcement and/or child protective services contact on preserving the safety of the child.
• If applicable, let your employer know that you have made a report to law enforcement or child protective services.
• Provide emotional support to the child when possible.
• Do not argue, blame, or interrogate the child.
• Do not try to convince the child he or she is mistaken.
• Do not direct any anger or retaliation toward the child.
• Allow law enforcement and/or child protective services to interact with parents and/or caregivers.
• Follow-up with law enforcement and/or child protective services on your report.