Sexual abuse claims up in Hampshire, Franklin Counties

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - 30% more cases of child sexual abuse were reported in Hampshire and Franklin Counties this year, according to Susan Loehn, director of the Children’s Advocacy Center in Northampton.

Loehn says that may not mean there are more sexual abuse cases than before, but more cases are now being reported.

“I like to think that it is because more children and parents are becoming aware of the fact that sexual abuse can happen to any child,” she said.

Once the children do come forward, than they can get the help and counseling they need.

A rally was held Wednesday in Boston , where advocates gathered to demand the Legislature eliminate the statute of limitations for sexual abuse case, which would give victims unlimited time to file charges against those who they accuse of abuse.