Oxnard--The City Council proclaimed April as Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness Month during its Tuesday, April 16 meeting.
MAYOR John Zaragoza welcomed Oxnard Police Department Sergeant Dale McAlpine to the dais along with Chief Jason Benites and members of the Family Protection Unit to share in the proclamation and said Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness Month are crimes that affect all races, cultures, and social demographics.
“It has a profound impact on families in the community,” Zaragoza said. “Children that grow up in violent homes are believed to be abused at a higher rate than the national average. Only a coordinated community effort can put a stop to these atrocious crimes.”
He said Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness Month provides residents with an excellent opportunity to learn more about preventing sexual abuse and child abuse and show support for the numerous opportunities that provide critical advocacy services and assistance to survivors.
“The City of Oxnard Community-Based organizations and positions provide education, information, and services to survivors,” he said. “They believe they have the right to feel safe and live free from violence at home and in the community.”
Zaragoza said they recognize the survivors of abuse…
