Child sex tourism draws fire from hunting group
The Dallas Safari Club became aware this week of allegations that child sex tourism may have been being arranged by outfitters for clients, said Executive Director Ben Carter, and the club voiced strong opposition to the practice in a press release.
“This information was just made aware to us very recently, and we had no knowledge that this could even be occurring,” said Carter, who added that child sex tourism is “deplorable, unethical.”
If DSC finds out who is involved, Carter said, those participating will be banned from participating in the club’s shows and other activities. Similar action is taken for outfitters who commit criminal wildlife violations, Carter said.
“We have a long record of being a very ethically strong organization,” Carter said.
DSC's press release is provided here:
Dallas Safari Club to Enforce Zero Tolerance
"DALLAS — This week, Dallas Safari Club (DSC) learned of allegations that certain outfitters exhibiting at sporting shows and expos across the U.S. are offering “child sex tourism” as part of their international hunting and fishing excursions. DSC announced today that it will aggressively enforce zero tolerance for those participating in these types of activities.
"Outfitters shown to be involved will be banned from DSC membership and all club events.
“ 'Our club has a well-established track record of banning outfitters for hunting ethics violations, but this deplorable activity goes beyond ethics and into criminal liability. Dallas Safari Club will not stand by while human decency is assaulted, either at home or abroad. I cannot overstate our condemnation of this appalling exploitation of minors,' said Ben Carter, DSC executive director.
"Carter said DSC will continue to support ethical guides and outfitters, legitimate hunters and anglers — and the outdoor industry as a whole — for their invaluable worth to global conservation."
Child sex tourism draws fire from hunting group
