Pregnant 12-Year-Old Found: Father Accused of Incest

A few weeks ago, we reported on the story of two sisters, one of them a pregnant 12-year-old, who were missing with their adoptive father. Well, time reveals most mysteries, and this one has become a bit clearer.

The father of the two girls, Mathew Hess, has been charged with indecent liberties with a child, first-degree rape and felony incest between near relatives.The father has already been charged with child neglect and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The other disturbing part of the case is that no one knows who the father of the unborn baby is. No one is stating that the adopted father of the girls is also the father of the baby, but no one has denied that he is the father and his charges imply that he might be suspected. The baby is due any day now, as the 12-year old was nine months pregnant when the girls disappeared.

This incident, which is alarming and disturbing, brings forth at least one major question: Why were these little girls not being protected and how was this man allowed to adopt them? There should be an investigation to find out if there was evidence before the fact that this man might harm the children. Child protective services should be held accountable.

Dr. Towanna Freeman, a well-known advocate for young women, had a great deal to say about this case and how we can protect our children. Here is some of what she had to say when it comes to protecting your children from sexual predators:

1. Have open discussion about what is healthy sexual behavior and what is abusive sexual behavior.

2. Let children know they can come to you if they are not comfortable being around a particular adult or older child.

She has more tips for protecting your children, you can read them by clicking here.

Even beyond this case, our entire nation needs to be held accountable when it comes to the protecting our children. The murder of Derrion Albert, along with problems in the school system, remind us that our kids are not safe if we do not keep them that way.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is a professor at Syracuse University, the 2007 Black Speaker of the Year and author of the forthcoming book 'Black American Money.' To have Dr. Boyce's commentary delivered to your e-mail, please click here.