There May Be More Victims

A 64-year-old man accused of sexual assault on an 8 year old girl was active in his church and had regular access to children. Police believe there may be more victims.

Melvin Macneil has been charged with sexual assault and sexual exploitation related to the 8 year old. The allegations are that over a two year period, Macneil sexually abused the child.

As stated earlier, Melvin Macneil was active in his church and has regular access to children. If you are or were part of that church, you know who he is.

Macneil is presumed innocent until proven guilty. IF he abused an 8 year old, there are likely more victims out there. Child sexual abusers tend to have many victims. Having regular access to the children through church and church activities doesn't mean that a sex predator will stay within that realm or circle of people.

Macneil was socially active in the Bloor West, Ossington Avenue area in Toronto, Ontario.

Tips on talking to your children:

Never lead. A leading question is any question with the answer built into it or generally any question that can be answered with a simple yes or no.

Be compassionate and attentive but not over-emotional. Children don't want to make their loved ones upset and will refrain from saying anything they think might cause upset.

Let them know that if an adult did something that made them feel uncomfortable, it is not the fault of the child.

Tell them they can tell you anything and you won't get mad at them, no matter what. Then stick to that - they may tell you things you never expected.

Your local victim services, or sexual assault center can help you if you want more detailed information on how to talk to the kids. You can also post questions here and get some answers.

If you suspect that your child has been victimized, contact your local police. If your child has been sexually abused, chances are that he or she is not the only victim.

If you suspect that your child was victimized by Macneil in particular, or you have any information that might help the police in their investigation (that means whether it helps exonerate Macneil or provides further leads to evidence against him), contact:

14 Division Youth and Family Services at 416-808-1405
or
make an anonymous report at 416-222-TIPS (8477)
or
report online at www.222.tips.com

Notes re Macneil's photo:

I'm putting his photo up so that those parents or community members dealing with children who do not know Macneil by name can see who he is. Also, maybe someone witnessed something.

As you view the picture, please remember that this man is innocent until proven guilty and vigilante action against him is not acceptable. We are better than that, right?

Also, it is likely that he'll receive bail if he hasn't already (the hearing was at Old City Hall yesterday - but the court there is jam-packed) and, if he receives bail, there will be conditions that he not attend parks, playgrounds, and schools or be alone with children. So if you see him in any of those places or see him alone with a child, you can (and should) call the police.