Jamaican police have charged a former Member of Parliament with incest following allegations that he sexually assaulted his young teenage daughter in January.
The man, who previously represented the People’s National Party, was arrested on Monday, according to reports.
The name of the former lawmaker is being withheld to protect the child’s identity.
Reports are that the alleged incident occurred on January 23 while the man was assisting the child with a passport application, during which he took her to verify photographs.
It is further alleged that the child was later taken to the man’s home, where he engaged in sexual intercourse with her.
Investigators later carried out an operation at the accused man’s home, where he was arrested and taken into custody.
The police area commander declined to comment immediately on Monday evening, saying he first needed to make certain checks.
PNP issues statement
In a statement issued April 6, the People’s National Party said it had noted reports that a former Member of Parliament had been charged with a serious sexual offence.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the young victim and all those affected by this deeply distressing case. The protection of children and all vulnerable persons must always be our absolute priority.”
The party said that upon learning of the charges, it acted without delay.
“Upon learning of the charges, the Party has acted without delay. The accused’s membership in the People’s National Party has been referred to the appropriate internal processes for immediate action. We respect that the matter is now a legal one, and as such, we will limit our comments. We trust that the judicial process will be fair, thorough, and expedient.”
The party added that it remains committed to the highest standards of conduct and to policies that actively protect and support victims of abuse.
“There is no place in our Party or our society for anyone who would commit such crimes,” the party said.
