Child sex abuse remains a Bermuda Police Service priority, according to a top officer.

In a statement this morning, Detective Superintendent Sean Field-Lament said the protection of vulnerable persons — in particular child safeguarding — was high on their priority list.

His comments come following the revelations of brothers Andrew and David Bascome, who spoke yesterday about the sexual abuse they endured as young footballers.

“We strongly urge that victims can and should come forward to report incidents of child sexual abuse,” he said. “As previously stated, there is no time limit to reporting these matters and we have highly trained detectives who work in partnership with other agencies to ensure child safeguarding.

“If you have been a victim or know of incidents of child sexual abuse, report them so that we can investigate to the fullest of our ability.

“While we commend persons coming forward and raising community awareness in brave public statements, we would advise that such statements should be carefully considered to avoid compromising potential investigations and/or future prosecutions.

“The Bermuda Police Service acknowledges that in such a small community the impact of these incidents can be highly emotional and devastating.

“We therefore continue to encourage persons that feel comfortable to come forward to make contact with our detectives, who are qualified to deal with these sensitive matters.

“These dedicated officers can also assist in identifying options available to victims, including directing them to appropriate supportive community agencies.

“However, we must seek to balance the need for recognising and providing support to victims with the need to ensure the integrity of the investigative, and ultimately, prosecution process.

“I remind the public and, in particular sporting bodies, that child protection awareness training and staff vetting is available on request from our partner agencies.

“The Bermuda Police Service is intent on stopping the cycle of child sexual abuse and with the community’s assistance we will be in a much better position to do so.

“As always, any information received will be treated with the strictest confidence.”

For further information or to report any matter, contact Detective 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.