Jess Phillips has emphasized the need for individuals who failed in their duty to address grooming gangs from public office to face imprisonment for their actions. The Safeguarding Minister expressed her expectation that social workers and officials who neglected their responsibilities will be held fully accountable. She disclosed that nearly 1,300 cases previously dismissed are now under review by law enforcement, with a focus on 216 rape allegations considered of utmost importance. Phillips assured a comprehensive public inquiry into the scandal with a commitment to prioritize the interests of victims throughout the process.
During her address to the Commons, Phillips affirmed the inquiry’s dedication to uncovering the truth without any compromise, even if it leads to uncomfortable discussions for some individuals. She stressed the importance of legal repercussions for those found guilty of misconduct and disgrace in their public roles, advocating for their imprisonment.
This statement followed inquiries by Tory Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp regarding the accountability of social workers who failed to safeguard victims. Phillips expressed her hope that any such negligent social workers would face the consequences they deserve for their actions.
A public inquiry was initiated subsequent to a scathing report in June highlighting the systemic failures in supporting victims of grooming gangs over several decades. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper pledged to deliver justice for the young girls exploited by predators, emphasizing that perpetrators will not evade punishment.
Testimonies revealed that children as young as 10 endured substance abuse and exploitation by groups of men, only to be repeatedly failed by authorities, as highlighted by MPs.
Cooper’s announcement included the reinvestigation by police of grooming gang cases previously closed. Providing an update to MPs, Phillips outlined the identification of 1,273 cases for review and the prioritization of 216 cases involving rape allegations for urgent investigation.
Law enforcement is expected to meticulously review these cases, collaborating with victims to ensure the pursuit of justice against offenders who belong in prison. This also involves ongoing scrutiny of the handling of child sexual abuse reports in Rotherham by South Yorkshire Police.
The National Crime Agency will oversee the investigation into South Yorkshire Police, as confirmed by the Home Office minister. The commitment is to provide support and justice to every grooming gang survivor, hold perpetrators accountable, thoroughly investigate all cases, and ensure liability for any individual or institution that turned a blind eye.
Phillips highlighted the significant impact of the Government’s child sexual abuse (CSA) taskforce, resulting in 827 arrests within a year and substantial investment in advanced technology to combat abuse.
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