Kent Police are commending members of the community for stepping up and reporting two separate incidents that led to the protection of at-risk children this week.
Police said that Officers responded to the calls with care and thoroughness, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children involved.
In the first case, a mother called 911 after her elementary school-aged child disclosed prior abuse by a family friend. The child had expressed discomfort being around the suspect, prompting the mother to ask more questions. Upon learning of the abuse, she immediately contacted authorities.
Officers arrived, collected evidence and statements, and arrested the suspect for child molestation.
“We want to applaud this child’s mother for listening, digging, and calling 911,” police said in a statement. “You handled this expertly and we want to commend you for your actions to protect your child.”
The second case involved an elementary school-aged child whose father is absent, mother is incarcerated, and a young adult sibling is acting as the caregiver. School officials became concerned when one of the younger children missed a week of classes and requested a welfare check.
Officers visited the home and spoke with the sibling caregiver, the child, and a family friend who has been providing weekend support. While the sibling is trying their best, officers determined that the caregiver was overwhelmed and needed additional assistance. Police contacted Child Protective Services (CPS) to connect the family with resources and discussed options with the caregiver. The family friend committed to offering more help in the interim.
One officer’s detailed report noted extra care taken while interviewing the child. The officer positioned himself lower than the child on the landing stairs to ease the child’s comfort with the size difference and engaged in casual conversation to build trust.
“These small gestures are critical when dealing with kids,” police said. “They take a bit longer but are crucial.”
Kent Police reiterated their commitment to protecting the city’s most vulnerable members, emphasizing the importance of taking the time necessary to handle such cases thoroughly.
