11 February 2005
Ecpat Commends Action Taken Against Child Sex Offenders
The Department of Internal Affairs yesterday announced another conviction of a child sex abuse offender.
The conviction of Shane Harris of Timaru for the distribution of pictures and movies of children being sexually abused
brought the total number of convicted child sex offenders to 155.
Mr. Alan Bell, Director of ECPAT NZ commends the vigilance of the Department of Internal Affairs and noted that on
average more than two New Zealanders are being convicted each month. “This should spell out a very clear warning that
offences of child sex abuse are not tolerated in New Zealand. It also reinforces that the protection of our children
from such abuse and working towards a society that does not tolerate sexual abuse and exploitation of children is the
responsibility of every citizen. The fact that there are this many convictions and that the rate is consistent is a
stark reminder that we need to be alert to the danger and take every measure to stamp out this unacceptable behaviour.”
ECPAT is a not for profit organization working towards a world where children live free from sexual abuse and
exploitation.
ENDS