In a courtroom, prosecutors shared distressing details surrounding the case of a pregnant 12-year-old girl who was admitted to a hospital due to abdominal pain. Shortly after her arrival, the girl, whose identity remains protected due to her age, gave birth to a baby, according to court proceedings.
Prosecutors revealed that the girl had been just 11 years old when she was sexually assaulted. It remains unclear whether she was aware of her pregnancy. During questioning by a midwife, the girl initially claimed not to know about sexual activity, but later, she was overheard admitting to others in the hospital that she had knowledge of it.
Court documents stated that the girl had been assaulted by her 14-year-old brother within their dysfunctional household. The family environment lacked parental control and fostered an atmosphere of secrecy, lies, and blurred boundaries, as reported. The victim’s brother, now 16 years old and protected by legal anonymity, had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of statutory rape, told the guardian.
Prosecutor Buckley disclosed that the incident came to light when the girl was urgently taken to the hospital in the early morning hours due to severe abdominal pain. Shortly afterward, she gave birth. During the midwife’s questioning, the girl initially claimed ignorance about the sexual activity, but when asked if she had given consent, she expressed uncertainty. Following this, the authorities became involved, and the teenage brother was interviewed by the police.
In his interview, the victim’s brother admitted to engaging in wrestling with his sibling on one occasion while their parents were absent. They then went upstairs to the bed to continue wrestling, as it was more comfortable. The brother explained that they began kissing and undressing before engaging in sexual activity. The girl expressed a desire to no longer return home and simply wished for a normal life appropriate for her age, ensuring the best possible future for her baby.
Presently, the defendant resides with foster parents and is responding positively to their guidance while expressing remorse. Judge Vosper imposed a two-year youth referral order on the teenager, requiring supervision and participation in specified activities. Additionally, the defendant will be registered as a sex offender for a period of 30 months.
We are republishing this story in light of recent reports indicating a surge in child sexual abuse during the pandemic in the United States. Statistics suggest that approximately 1 in 9 girls and 1 in 53 boys under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault perpetrated by adults.