Killjoy is the story of Rollie Powell's ten-year personal war against child sexual abuse, against the indifference and social denial that allows this crime to exist and grow at an alarming rate. As a detective with Rutland's Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Vermont he offers a full view of the issues from someone who has been on the frontlines - of the perpetrators, the victims, their families, the overloaded justice system and the public media reactions. With honesty and insight into his own conflict and emotions, this memoir demonstrates the damaging cause and effect of a crime that threatens to unravel our social foundations and destroys our families. This book offers a unique perspective and understanding of the subject, its complexities and devastation. Actual case studies dispel the myth that this crime is limited to circumstances, classes or locations. This socially relevant expose offers parents, child care providers, and professionals involved with children, critical insight and prevention strategies.

In the course of his career, Powell had to overcome his own ignorance, denial and lack of training in dealing with these cases. Nor could he escape personal involvement when his family dentist was reported as an offender, and a fellow officer was suspected as a contributor in a child sexual abuse case involving the two boys of his best friend. Powell finds that this crime bridges all races and classes and he realizes that he has to work through parental and family trauma first, before he can reach out to the victim.

While media coverage since the mid-eighties has helped in creating awareness of child sexual abuse, acceptance of the magnitude and devastation of this crime is still minimal. Powell's case work clearly demonstrates that our children are at the greatest risk in the environments they trust. High profile cases involving strangers and brutal abductions or murder are the exception. The facts show that more than 80 percent of offenders are known to the victim, and that the relationship of trust allows the crime to continue for long periods of time.

The children have no voice, no rights, and the fear of not being believed keeps the secrets hidden. This book is the voice for the children, an often brutal but realistic portrayal of the reality of this crime, yet with a clear message that awareness raising, early intervention and a consistent approach to treatment, can have an impact.

Included are two appendices: In the Prevention Guide, Powell offers techniques and methods for prevention through educating children, recognizing signs of abuse in children, providing love and support and getting professional help. The Resource Guide is a list of associations, organizations, state agencies and web sites, offering support and information.