A local psychologist says it is important for the parents of sexual assault survivors to validate their feelings when they come forward.
The investigation into sexual offences allegedly committed by 32-year-old Markus Hicks of Paradise is continuing, with police releasing new information yesterday on additional social media aliases and Hicks’ connection to another residence, this one in Torbay.
Hicks, a teacher and volleyball coach, is currently facing 63 counts. His Trail’s End Home in Paradise was seized as part of the investigation.
RNC Constable James Cadigan
The additional fake accounts include Maria Winchester, Brittany Campbell and Bradol15. The Winchester account dates back to the days of MSN. RNC Constable James Cadigan is encouraging anyone who may have had interactions with those accounts to contact them.
The RNC is emphasizing that it is taking a trauma-informed approach to anyone who reaches out with information.
Psychologist, Dr. Janine Hubbard says now is the time for families to have a conversation with children and young people.
She says if a young person does disclose information, it is important to give them validation and reassure them that they did nothing wrong. A good place to start, according to Hubbard, is to ask them “what do you need from me today?” and meet them where their needs are.
