Abuse through a belief in so-called ‘spirit possession’ ('witchcraft')
This form of child abuse is very difficult to identify as it is often masked from professionals and child abuse investigators as other, potentially less serious forms of abuse. For instance, a child who is displaying signs of physical injury may be the subject of an investigation for physical abuse only by the perpetrator. However, in reality the belief by the perpetrator that this child is possessed by an ‘evil spirit’ may lead to much more severe types of physical assault, neglect, cruelty and even death.
Project Violet was set up in 2004, by the Metropolitan Police Service as part of the response to the case of Child B and children abused through a belief are possessed by an evil spirit (commonly referred to by practicing communities as 'witchcraft'). The first high profile and well-known case involving a belief in spirit possession by her carers was the torture and murder of, 8 year old, Victoria Adjo Climbie in February 2000. Those responsible were tried and convicted for her murder but the 'witchcraft' element was not significantly relied upon by the prosecution.
The first case involving a direct conviction for Child Cruelty motivated by a belief in spirit possession was the case of Child 'B' (R v Muanza & others). This was heard at the Central Criminal Court in June 2005 and resulted in convictions motivated purely by a belief that this 8 year old girl was possessed by an evil spirit. Although there is no specific offence against this form of abuse, authorities can use other appropriate legislation such as Child Cruelty, assaults, neglect and common law to prosecute offenders.
This is a very complex issue and needs to be tackled on many levels. It is as much about identifying the child abuse concern, those responsible, that community’s perception and engaging with faith organisations. Training in this subject is crucial to provide child protection professionals the means to properly assess cases. Engagement with faith organisations is an essential part of this process and whilst we do not seek to change individual beliefs it is important to highlight forms of child abuse and the legal consequences of certain courses of action.
Please contact us to discuss further your or your organisational concerns or requirements to ensure everyone is equipped to recognise when and how to respond appropriately to prevent this serious form child abuse or report their concerns that a child might be subject of this form of abuse.