Dear Pastor,

I am a male student of a prominent regional institution of tertiary education. I visited this island for the purpose of furthering my education, with financing from a student loan. However, I have stumbled upon some very hot water. I was picked up on this institution's compound and interviewed by the estate police for being a sexual offender. They informed me that I resemble a suspect from an image which later turned out to be a police sketch. This sexual offender has been lurking around female bathrooms peeping at unsuspecting ladies.

However, the ongoing investigations are the least of my worries. During that interview, I was severely insulted. I was called several derogatory names, taunted and threatened. As an individual with no criminal record, I have never been so humiliated that much in my life, especially from a high-ranking official. In the presence of several officers (whom I encounter almost daily) I was called a "peeping tom" repeatedly, warned to avoid the female toilets, and threatened with biting attacks from Doberman dogs. I was also threatened to be sent to prison if I did not confess to the crimes which they told me I committed. A witness was called in who informed the security squad that there are physical differences between myself and the perpetrator, but the abuse and jokes continued. In the days that followed, the threats and insults persisted.

Pastor, I subscribe to the need for investigating the allegations, but why accuse and taunt me. I have no bad-records in the institution. When someone becomes successful in life, people dig into your past, and incidents like these can tarnish a man's reputation for life. I kept requesting updates on the investigation from the security office, and was promised several calls and meetings which never materialised. During numerous visits to this office, I was subsequently informed that the individuals who reported the crime reside at far distances in the island and have not been keeping their appointments with security personnel.

I have written to the administration of this institution requesting an apology for the accusations. They replied that the matter was sent to another office and that I should liaise with that office for further information. I visited this other office and was informed that they are awaiting a report on the matter. Additionally, since the head of this office was away, they requested my contact information and promised to contact me within two weeks. The head of this office was expected to return within this time. Two weeks have passed and I have not been contacted. Now, I will need to visit this office again.

Pastor, I have been in contact with several support systems on the compound and they always empathise with me; but that is all they do. I am at a dead end and I do not know what else to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Student

Dear Student,

You cannot handle this matter without help. I suggest, therefore, that you put this matter into the hands of a lawyer.

Pastor