It is sometimes overwhelming to hear stories that remind us of just how much evil exists in this world. This is one of many reasons why crimes committed against children must be punished. As a society, we need to see that justice is real and that the justice system works.
Sadly, news outlets across the country have been reporting about a case that has convinced many Americans that those with money are above the law. In 2008, the great grandson of Irenee du Pont (founder of the DuPont chemical company) was convicted of raping his daughter when she was just 3 years old. Others in his situation likely would have served decades in prison, but he was sentenced instead to probation and treatment. Recently, the man’s ex-wife filed a civil lawsuit against him after it was discovered that he also sexually abused his young son starting when the boy was just a toddler.
In the lawsuit against him, his ex-wife alleges that the children will likely suffer from significant long-term injuries. These include post-traumatic stress disorder, shame, depression and sexual dysfunction.
Children who are sexually abused are likely to suffer serious psychological and sometimes physical injuries. When their abuser is a parent or other family member, however, the psychological trauma can be especially severe.
It is hard to fathom how any judge could justify such a light criminal sentence for such a horrific crime. Sadly, the criminal justice system does not always provide justice for all. Hopefully, the civil case will allow his ex-wife to at least hold him accountable in court and to make sure that there is enough money to pay for the therapy and other treatments her children will undoubtedly require.
Source: Detroit Free Press, “Du Pont heir who raped toddler daughter, accused of sexually abusing 19-month-old son,” Chris Barrish, March 19, 2014
