Sexual Abuse?

[passion35]

My brother who was aged 23 recently passed away. He always hated our sister I didn't know why at the time. After we had buried him a few weeks later one of his best friends told me that our sister had sexually abused him when he was 11 she would have been 18 at the time. I then started to ask the people who he was very close with if my brother had told them anything to do with a family member and 3 of them had said that my sister had sexually abused him. His ex partner even confirmed this with me she hated our sister as well for this reason as they had a son together. I have since told my Mum whose devasted and my Dad who isn't bothered in the slightest. If I wanted to contact the police regarding this matter do you think I would have a case against her. She is also living with a partner who doesn't know and they have 4 young children together? Please advise if you can? Thanks

[Ethel]

You wouldn't have a case against her, as she has done you no harm - and in criminal matters it's the police who prosecute and 'have a case'.

Sadly, the only evidence is hearsay. You do not know for a fact this happened, and nor do the people who told you. They only know they were told it.

Your sister is the only one who knows for sure, and with no evidence or statement from the victim, then I really don't see what the police would do.

I suggest you contact Rape Crisis for emotional support and advice. Although you are not directly a victim, you are still affected.

Or if you feel strong enough - ask your sister for her version.

[Buenchico]

On the basis of what you've said, the Crown Prosecution Service could not bring a successful case against your sister because the only evidence against her is 'hearsay'. The fact that several people all state that your brother mentioned the abuse wouldn't really carry much weight. Your sister could just say that he was spreading malicious gossip about her. Since the actual evidence (i.e. your brother's statements) can no longer be tested before a court, there is no chance of a conviction.

However, I still recommend that the allegations should be reported to the 'authorities'. (You could speak to the police but you might find it easier to talk to someone else from the local child protection panel). Even if no specific action follows, it will mean that any signs of abuse, by your sister, against her own children are more likely to be picked up at an early stage. It's too late to help your brother but you have a duty to protect your nieces and nephews from the possibility of harm.

You can probably find contact details for your local child protection panel on the website of your local council. (If you don't live in an area controlled by a unitary authority, you need to refer to the county council site rather than the district council one).

Chris

[madman06]

easier said than done passion,but try and let your brother R.I.P ,if it is true your sis will not tell you,and as for your dad hes probley still grieving the loss of a son,when we loose a loved 1 we all react in different ways,i lost my dad 2 years ago he 51 me 32 my 5 sisters cried there hearts out it took me 18 months to grieve,so please dont think your dad dosent care,(xxxxxx)these kisses r only 4 u if your female,if your male sorry mate

[passion35]

I knew deep down that it would be hard to prove, I think I just needed to share this with other people and get opinions. Many thanks to you all for your thoughts on this matter, and your kind regards.