Sickened by toddler assault, and public's response

While my instinct agrees with a public child sex offender registry, my mind argues the opposite and apparently so does the evidence.

Police are on the hunt for a man believed to have sexually assaulted a four-year-old girl in a Coolum park public toilet. Picture: Warren Lynam

OPINION:

I AM shocked and sickened to learn a four-year-old girl was recently sexually assaulted at a Coolum Park.

So too am I disgusted at all those who have come out in the wake of this absolute tragedy blaming the parents, questioning where they were.

I don't have children, but I have been around them enough to know it only takes a split second to lose sight of them.

My heart goes out to the little girl, to her family and loved ones. I can't imagine and hope to never know the pain they are going through.

The only person to blame here is the man responsible, who police are still searching for and ask any members of the public to help identify.

This recent tragedy comes after a man is alleged to have taken a seven-year-old girl from a North Lakes shopping centre and indecently assaulted her last month. The matter is still before the court.

It also comes amidst calls for a public database of child sex offenders. I have heard much discussion in favour, from those saying we have a right to know who and where child sex offenders are.

And while my instinct agrees, my mind argues the opposite and apparently so does the evidence.

The Institute of Criminology reports there is little evidence to suggest similar policies in the US have reduced re-offending, and despite strong public support they appear to have little effect on levels of fear in the community.

I sincerely hope anyone who commits such heinous acts against a child is brought to justice.

But when I see the flippant death threats which always rear in times of tragedy, I hope it is the law enforcers rather than the vigilantes who see justice is done.