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Police are probing whether a 44-year-old man sexually assaulted a minor for whom he was acting as a mentor.

It is alleged that the minor initially brought a laptop to the home of the accused, who is a technician, to be fixed.

It is further alleged that the man, over time, took on the role of mentor to the minor, and, on several occasions, would lock himself and the minor in his workshop where he would perform oral sex on the youngster.

It is expected that the man would be charged with an act of grievous sexual assault.

Betty Ann Blaine, child advocate and founder of the Hear the Children's Cry and Youth Opportunities Unlimited, told THE WEEKEND STAR that she is distraught with what continues to happen to the nation's children, and parents should be observant of their children.

Be extremely vigilant

"As defined in the Child Care and Protection Act, this is a criminal offence, and the perpetrator should be brought before the court to answer charges. It's important that a thorough investigation is done," she said. "Parents must be extremely vigilant. They must know where and with whom their children are associating and pay special attention to the children's internet and social media activities."

Blaine is advising persons who are involved in sexual acts with children to seek help.

"Adults who have a preference for sexual acts with children, in other words, paedophiles, should be warned to seek professional help or face the full brunt of the law," said Blaine.

Meanwhile, Children's Advocate Diahann Gordon Harrison is urging both parents and children to tread cautiously as the act of children being assaulted is reoccurring.

"The whole history of sexual abuse to our children is a very troubling one and it is one that has been with us for a very long time. We as parents and guardians and extended family who care for children, genuinely have to scrutinise the persons who their children are involved with," she told THE WEEKEND STAR. "As for children, always try to trust your instincts. If something makes you feel uncomfortable, then you have to disclose it, so the type of support you need will come at the right time."