THERE were 178 fewer reports of sex crimes against minors last year than in 2023, representing a 32% drop, according to data from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service’s Crime and Problem Analysis (CAPA) Branch.

And head of Region One Unit of the Special Victims Department (SVD) Inspector Darren Baptiste has attributed the decline to expanded outreach efforts by the SVD, which focused on educating the public about children’s rights, recognising signs of abuse, and accessing support services.

BREAKDOWN: The number of reports of sexual penetration of minors ages 12 and under between 2023 and 2024, according to the TTPS’ Crime and Problem Analysis Branch.