This month, the DIJ Judicial Police Sexual Crimes Unit in Panama, supported by the OUR RESCUE team, successfully apprehended an adult male suspect for the sexual exploitation of a minor. The suspect, a cousin of the minor, had been allegedly abusing the fifteen-year-old girl for a period of two months. According to the survivor’s statement to police, her cousin would record the sexual abuse and physically assault her.
The arrest occurred at the suspect’s residence, where police detained him without incident. The forensic police analysis unit is now conducting a thorough review of the suspect’s phone to uncover any evidence of potential distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
The minor was immediately transported to a hospital, where medical professionals conducted a comprehensive examination and collected forensic evidence. In parallel, the prosecutor’s office conducted an interview with the survivor to support the legal case. Additionally, the case has been referred to Panama’s child and family services agency, SENIAF, for further follow-up and social work support.
SENIAF has taken steps to ensure the minor’s safety and well-being. The agency has requested assistance from OUR RESCUE Survivor Care to provide the necessary resources and support for this brave survivor. Together, these organizations are working to offer her a path to recovery and justice while continuing the investigation into potential broader criminal activities linked to the suspect.
OUR RESCUE is honored to fill the needs of local authorities for these types of operations and support the trauma-informed care of the survivors following the rescues.