Time To Be Heard

And because of existing laws that place a statute of limitations on sex abuse cases, they say, they cannot bring their alleged abusers to justice.

“I’m a good example of why the statute of limitations is so limiting and hurtful,’’ said Conner, who talked about the tennis coach, star Bob Hewitt, who flattered her with declarations of adoration. “I was 48 years old when I first sought help.’’

“If I could have spoken up sooner,’’ said Chesley, 53, his voice breaking, “I would have.’’

Attorneys, elected officials, and victims of childhood sexual abuse testified yesterday at the State House, urging the judiciary committee to support a bill that would eliminate the statute of limitations in sexual abuse cases.

About 50 supporters of the legislation gathered earlier in the day at a rally in front of the State House, surrounded by black-and-white photographs of abused children, shouting over duck boats and sirens to share their experiences and support for the bill.

In the afternoon, state senators and representatives listened to testimony regarding various legislation related to sexual offenders.

Conner first went public with her accusations against Hewitt, a celebrated doubles player honored in the International Tennis Hall of Fame, in an Aug. 28 article in the Globe. When Conner was 14 years old, the star player offered to coach her for free. Soon after, she said, he began having sex with her.

Conner said the supportive responses she received after sharing her story buoyed her to get more involved with speaking out against child abuse.

“Listening and sitting through all those testimonies - it was stressful,’’ Conner, who lives in West Newbury, said after the hearing. “But the representatives seemed to be very receptive.’’

Chesley, 53, said he was abused by a police officer in the Washington, D.C., area as a teenager.

“I like to think I’m a pretty tough guy,’’ Chesley said. “But it breaks me down still.’’

In attendance at the rally were elected officials, including Representative Ronald Mariano of Quincy, and Representative Shaunna O’Connell of Taunton.