The child advocacy centres tasked with conducting forensic interviews with 15-year-old Tiana Chapman and 14-year-old Aleena Preetam have confirmed that they did what was required. Yet, as is evident from the fate of the two teens, the government agencies that were supposed to handle the next leg of the cases failed.
Preetam was found dead in her bed next to her one-month-old baby. A post-mortem revealed that she died of heart failure and anaemia. Chapman is fighting for her life after being stabbed 25 times, allegedly by the man who impregnated her.
ChildLinK’s Executive Director Omattie Madray confirmed with Guyana Standard that ChildLinK conducted the forensic interview for Chapman, while Blossom’s Executive Director, Ayodele Dalgety- Dean confirmed the forensic interview for Preetam was conducted by her organisation.
During a forensic interview, the victim is made to report the incident in excruciating detail. The interview is recorded to avoid the victim having to relive that trauma more than is necessary. The interview is supposed to be used to inform the following steps to be taken by the state, especially to determine if the victim needs state protection.
Blossom Inc. and ChildLinK clarified the boundaries of the child-protection framework, emphasising that while they provide critical support, the ultimate statutory responsibility rests with the Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA).
While the officials are unable to comment on the specific facts or circumstances of either case, as both matters involve minors and remain subject to ongoing police and statutory investigations, Blossom and ChildLinK clarified that under Guyanese law and established child-protection protocols, CPA is the statutory body with overall responsibility for safeguarding, case management, and decision-making relating to children in need of care and protection.
Blossom, with the endorsement of ChildLink issued a statement to Guyana Standard which read “The CPA acts as the lead agency and coordinates referrals to specialist service providers as required. Blossom’s involvement in cases concerning children occurs only upon formal referral from the CPA and within clearly defined parameters.”
While Blossom provides forensic interviewing and therapeutic services, it stressed that the organisation does not hold investigative authority and only acts upon formal referrals from the CPA “Our role is strictly service-based, trauma-informed, and survivor-centred, operating within the boundaries of referrals received and professional ethical standards.”
The statement noted, “These tragic cases highlight the urgent need for a strong, coordinated, and accountable child-protection system, characterised by clear reporting, timely intervention, and sustained oversight to ensure that no child falls through the cracks.”
Blossom said it remains committed to “working collaboratively with statutory agencies to strengthen child protection in Guyana while upholding confidentiality, due process, and the best interests of the child.”
