A sex crime charge can derail a career, even when the defendant has not yet been tried or convicted. That’s particularly true for people who work with children.
An Upper Marlboro, Maryland, man who has worked at North County High School for two years is facing the loss of both of his jobs there after he was accused of inappropriately touching a female student in February and arrested.
The 36-year-old man, who has worked as both the varsity football coach and a behavioral assistant at the school for two years, has been informed that his coaching contract won’t be renewed for this coming school year. The school superintendent also said that he plans to “initiate dismissal proceedings…given his being charged.”
The student who alleged the touching incident in February told authorities that the man had been texting her both during and outside of school hours.
It was not reported specifically where or under what circumstances the alleged physical contact with the girl occurred. However, in his behavior assistant position, the man was supposed to, among other things, “de-escalate, monitor and control disruptive behaviors,” according to an Anne Arundel County Public Schools spokesman.
Upon being informed of the allegations, school officials moved the man to a job in a garage belonging to the school system where he would not have contact with students.He was released after his arrest on a $25,000 bond.
School systems are required to take such allegations seriously and to work to ensure that students are safe. However, the justice system takes longer to work. A person accused of sexual abuse, even if not eventually convicted, can see his or her reputation and life publicly destroyed in the meantime. It’s essential that if you or a loved one is facing such charges, you seek experienced legal guidance immediately.
Source: Capital Gazette, “North County High School coach charged with touching student,” Phil Davis, June 29, 2017
