I always make it a point to remind parents and kids that you can't disguise a child predator. A predator can be anyone. A doctor, lawyer, pastor, coach, teacher or family member -- anyone, male or female.
In the disturbing case referenced above, Eleanor Hunton Hoppe of Charlottesville, Virginia -- a mother of two young daughters, a described "socialite" and ex-wife of a Virginia judge -- was arrested after police say she agreed to meet an undercover agent with his fictitious 8-year-old daughter at a hotel in Warrenton, Virginia. Police say Hoppe disclosed in her online communications with the undercover agent her plans to abuse the girl. The police report also indicates that she sent violent child sexual abuse material to agents.
The accused mother was charged with distributing child pornography, enticement of a minor and attempted transportation of a minor with attempt to engage in sexual activity. The accounts of her alleged activity are too disturbing to share here.
Research shows that women, even mothers who sexually abuse children, may do so for different reasons than men, including narcissistic tendencies (jealousy, exaggerated self importance), may see a relationship based on love and not abuse, or may be a "predisposed molester," often having experienced abuse themselves.
As we draw upon a close to "Child Abuse Prevention Month" marked each April, we must always be mindful of the very real risks our children face and educate ourselves and our children about these threats.
Key points:
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You cannot detect disguised predator: prominent community leaders or even women with children can be a predator, sex offender or trafficker. They come from all backgrounds and may live in our own backyards.
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Someone known and trusted by the child or child’s family members, perpetrates 91% of child sexual abuse. (Source: CDC)
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Research has indicated that women are 4.5 times more likely to offend against their biological child, or other children in their care, as opposed to children they don't know.
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Children and adolescents must be educated about predator awareness in age appropriate ways and made aware of the grooming tactics predators often employ to gain a child's trust.
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Cycle of abuse- Children (whose sexual exploitation/abuse is depicted) are forced to suffer a lifetime of re-victimization and trauma each time the image of their sexual abuse is viewed online. Child sexual exploitation can have a direct connection to pornography and sex trafficking.
