THE Tobago House of Assembly’s (THA) Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection (DHWSP) is responding to the allegations made against its Director of Social Protection Dr Hanif Benjamin.
On Wednesday, it was revealed that Benjamin, a clinical traumatologist and therapist, was charged with two sexual related offences under the Children’s Act, after an alleged incident with a 15-year-old boy, earlier this month.
On Thursday, he was placed on $170,000 bail by Master Delicia Bethelmy.
The terms of his bail include that he is to have no contact or communication with the alleged victim, any witness, surrender his passport and report the police station closest to him.
The case was adjourned to January 16.
Benjamin was represented by attorneys Ajesh Sumessar and Andre Cole.
Responding to the matter, the DHWSP stated, it was aware of the allegations and that they were being investigated.
The Division added, “The DHWSP upholds the highest standards of conduct and has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of misconduct. As such, we are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness.”
Noting the sensitive nature of the matter, it stated, “We understand that a situation such as this can impact the public and we are committed to handling this matter with transparency while respecting the legal process and the privacy of all individuals involved. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will take all appropriate actions, as deemed necessary.”
The division stated it remained “dedicated to maintaining a culture of integrity and accountability, remains focused on its duty to serve the public and will continue to act in the best interest of our communities.”
Benjamin served as Chairman of the Children’s Authority between 2017 to 2020.
He was charged with sexual communication and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child under Section 23 and 25 A(1) of the Children’s Act.
Charges were laid by Cpl Cassie of the Child Protection Unit (CPU).
Earlier in the month, the mother of the 15-year-old reported Benajmin to the Brasso Police Station.
It was reported that Benajmin was providing counselling to the teenager for what his mother described as “behavioural issues.”
It was alleged that during a session via a WhatsApp video call, Benjamin revealed his genitals to the teenager. The teenager reported this to his mother and had taken screenshots of Benjamin allegedly exposing himself.
