Data released by the Public Security Secretariat of the State of São Paulo (SSP) indicate a significant growth in reports of rape of vulnerable individuals in the city of São José do Rio Preto (SP). Between January and September 2026, there was a 76.9% increase compared to the same period last year.
The statistical analysis reveals that most of these incidents involve children and adolescents who are victims of violence perpetrated by members of the family circle, within their own homes.
The seriousness of the situation was recently highlighted when the Civil Police arrested an individual sentenced to 42 years of imprisonment for raping his stepdaughter over four years. The investigation showed that the abuse began when the victim was only 13 years old.
Signs of child violence
In conversation with TV TEM, psychologist Mônica Soares emphasized the need to be aware of indicators that a child or adolescent may be suffering violence. She listed several signs, such as mood changes—where expansive children become withdrawn or calm youths show unexplained irritability.
Other alerts include changes in routine, such as insomnia, recurring nightmares, or loss of appetite, in addition to behavioral regressions, such as wetting the bed again or showing an excessive dependence on adults inappropriate for their age.
According to Mônica Soares, psychological support is crucial in this scenario, and it should be offered to both the child and the family so that the latter can help the victim. The specialist also advised that when receiving a report of a crime, the adult must remain calm, never doubt what is said, assure the child that it is not their fault, that there will be trust and resolution, and then immediately seek out the nearest police station or health service.
How to report
There are several ways to register suspicions or reports of abuse and sexual exploitation against minors. It is possible to contact Dial 100 (a free and anonymous Human Rights service), call 190 of the Military Police in emergencies, or go directly to the Women's Defense Police Station (DDM).