Minister for National Security Rayburn Blackmoore has issued a stern warning to individuals who obstruct child victims of sexual abuse from testifying in court, emphasizing that such actions are criminal under Dominica’s Sexual Offenses Act.
Speaking during the 2025–2026 National Budget debate, Blackmoore addressed the issue of discontinued legal proceedings due to the absence of victim testimony.
“One of the matters that was discontinued is the failure of the victim to testify,” he said. “And that victim happened to be a minor, which means that person cannot make decisions for him or herself. And because the parents said that my child doesn’t want to testify…”
Blackmoore cited the Sexual Offenses Act, which makes it an offense to prevent witnesses from testifying. The law carries a penalty of up to seven years in prison.
“It is time that people, including parents and guidance, teachers, nurses, doctors who prevent minors who have been abused [from testifying] should be charged and taken before the court and sent to jail,” he stated.
He further emphasized the long-term impact on victims.
“Because when you prevent that young child who was sexually abused from testifying, you are destroying that child’s life forever,” he declared.
In his remarks, Blackmoore also called for a collaborative approach to child protection, urging institutions and individuals to work together.
“So, we have to have that marriage between the various agencies of socialization to ensure that we care for that child,” he said.
The Minister concluded by rejecting the notion that politicians should bear sole responsibility for failures in the system, suggesting that accountability must be shared across sectors involved in child welfare.