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Liberian Ambassador meets with Phoenix Police
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On August 6, 2009 the Republic of Liberia's Deputy Ambassador, Edwin Sele, met with Phoenix Police managers as part of a five-day visit to express his empathy for an 8 year-old rape victim, who was a Liberian refugee. Four boys, all Liberian refugees ages 9 to 14, lured the girl to an empty storage shed July 16 with the promise of chewing gum, restrained her and took turns raping her. The rape case drew international attention last month after police reported the alleged victim's parents said they were ashamed of the girl and didn't want her. Deputy Ambassador Sele, along with advocates for the Liberian refugee community in Phoenix, met face to face with Phoenix Police managers at department headquarters, located at 620 W. Washington Street during the visit.
Phoenix Police saw this as an opportunity to explain investigative procedures related to child crimes and also to develop and expand dialogue and communication with valued members of the community. It was an insightful and spirited exchange, to which Deputy Ambassador Sele was most appreciative of the time he spent with the Phoenix Police Department. Sele also plans to meet with prosecutors, childcare workers, police and family members of the boys and girl, but would need approval from CPS to meet with the girl because she is in their custody.