CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - The Jerry Sandusky verdict resonates to the Queen City by highlighting the grim reality of child abuse.
Child advocates at United Family Services in Mecklenburg County say they often see a rise in calls after a case like the one in Pennsylvania. They hope more people will call if they even think abuse is happening. Already this year, the agency has helped 1,500 adults and children.
Statistics show 1 in 4 girls, 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by 18. 9 out of 10 children will never report the abuse.
"We think a case like this is where there is going to be a conviction, they're holding people accountable..that's very important because a lot of times a victim feels that is not going to happen. ..but we want them to know it's important to speak out and stop it from happening to other people and to get help for themselves," Karen Parker with United Family Services said.
Advocates say by disclosing the abuse, victims take the first step to breaking the cycle.
"You'll be amazed at how easy it is to talk to a therapist..who is unbiased. Who is not a friend of family member," Parker said.
Parker says she hopes the high profiled case will get more people talking to children about what is and is not appropriate behavior, asking questions and informing the community about how to spot abuse.
If you suspect abuse, contact the Department of Social Services, local child protective agency or call 911. North Carolina requires mandatory reporting by any person or institution.
To learn more about signs of abuse, how to report it or what happens after a report is made, click here.
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