The Bermuda Police Service has urged anyone with knowledge of sexual abuse to come forward in the wake of claims that football players have been victims.

In a statement yesterday, Sean Field-Lament, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, said the protection of vulnerable persons was a priority for the police.

“I stress to all members of the general public that all cases of sexual abuse can and should be reported to the police regardless of the time frame involved,” he said. “The Bermuda Police Service consistently investigates reported incidents of sexual assault of all forms.

“In recent times, we have expanded our capacity and capability in the area and have a pool of highly trained officers who are specifically tasked to address these issues. This team, under the leadership of Acting Detective Chief Inspector Mark Clarke, is well equipped to investigate these sensitive matters and is supported by a raft of robust legislation.”

He noted that partner agencies including the Department of Child and Family Services, the Coalition for the Protection of Children, Scars, and the Inter-Agency Committee for Children are all available for further expert advice and support when facing these issues.

“Specific training to sporting bodies is available and has been delivered to several clubs already,” he continued. “I remind people that there are statutory requirements of reporting suspected incidents of child abuse under the Children Act 1998. It is an offence not to report these incidents.

“To reiterate, the Bermuda Police Service takes all reports of child abuse and sexual abuse seriously and there is no time limit to reporting these incidents. If you are a victim and/or know of incident(s) of child sexual abuse — report it to the police.”

The comments came after one of the island’s top coaches, Maceo Dill, said he was aware of several former players who have suffered sexual abuse by people linked with the island’s clubs, which he believed had been a breeding ground for sexual predators looking to prey on vulnerable youngsters.

• For further information or to report any matter please contact Acting Detective Chief Inspector Mark Clarke of the Serious Crime Unit on 717-0282, e-mail mclarke@bps.bm, or contact the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477.