Fair an opportune time to prey on children
It’s fair week, one of the most celebrated times here in Warren County. From the rides, to the Fairest of the Fair pageant, to baby shows and food booths, the fair is a week-long social event which brings the community together.
Unfortunately, as is often the case, there are people out there who don’t have good-hearted intentions. Wide-eyed children may view the fair as a source of exciting entertainment and they likely don’t see it as a place where danger lurks.
There are shady characters who do see the fair as their opportunity to take advantage of children in vulnerable situations. There are sick individuals who would like nothing more than to exploit a child who may wander from the crowd just for a moment.
Judging by two stories in today’s edition, parents need to keep a close eye on their children. This holds true even when the fair isn’t in town.
It is with great sadness the Standard published the front-page story where a former Marine allegedly raped an innocent 6-year-old girl on several occasions. If such charges are true, the little girl is in store for a life of painful childhood memories. Her emotional stability may be affected for her entire life.
While this incident is totally unrelated to the fair, there are charges stemming from a Monday night encounter which took place on the midway. A man reportedly made lewd comments to a 13-year-old girl and then tried to grab her.
It’s a stroke of luck the teen knew exactly what to do. She immediately ran away from her alleged attacker and sought out law officers. She then informed them of her allegations and they wasted no time arresting the supposed perpetrator.
It is through the quick and appropriate action of this teen any bigger problems were avoided. Maybe nothing more would have become of the situation and the man would have walked away on his own. That’s certainly a possibility.
Of course nowadays, it’s wise to prepare for the worst and be aware of what can happen anywhere in this county or country. As Sheriff Jackie Matheny has stressed, now is the appropriate time to talk to your children about what to do if approached by a stranger – at the fair or anywhere else.
Many parents have already done this. Others may have forgotten the importance of being prepared.
It’s no fun to constantly look over your shoulder and brace for the worst. But it is vital to know what to do in case of emergency.
While our children are having a blast playing fair games and riding rides, there is the possibility someone is out there looking to prey on their innocence. And when it comes to the safety of children, it doesn’t pay to take chances. We encourage everyone to have a great time and enjoy the rest of the fair festivities. But do so while also paying attention to the well-being of your children.