Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A basketball coach from Palm Beach County Schools has been arrested on multiple felony charges following allegations of sexual exploitation involving a minor, according to CBS 12. Authorities have identified the suspect as 25-year-old Javian Dennard Golphin Jr., who was taken into custody by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) after a detailed investigation.
Court documents reveal that Golphin, a former boys basketball coach at Lake Shore Middle School, located at 425 W Canal St N, Belle Glade, FL 33430, is accused of engaging in unlawful sexual communications with a 16-year-old girl. The investigation alleges that Golphin used social media platforms and text messaging to solicit sexual acts from the minor. Evidence uncovered includes explicit images and videos of Golphin, which were reportedly sent to the victim. Authorities state that Golphin was aware of the victim's age yet continued sending sexually explicit materials and engaging in inappropriate discussions.
The investigation began when the victim reported receiving explicit messages and videos from Golphin via Instagram and text messages. A search of the victim’s phone, conducted with the consent of her legal guardian, revealed graphic exchanges between Golphin and the minor. Detectives described the content as deeply troubling, citing conversations that spanned from early September to late October 2025.
Golphin was arrested on October 21, 2025, and is currently being held at the Palm Beach County West Detention Center on a $30,000 bond. He faces the following charges:
Following these allegations, Golphin’s role as a coach has been officially terminated. According to Lake Shore Middle School Principal Dr. Carl Gibbons, Golphin was removed from the school on October 7, 2025, after the district received a complaint and launched an investigation. Principal Gibbons assured families that Golphin would not be returning to the campus and reiterated the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment.
A similar statement was issued by Glades Central Community High School Principal Melanie Bolden-Morris, who confirmed that Golphin is barred from their campus as well. Both principals urged families to report any concerning behavior to trusted authorities or through the FortifyFL app.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising concerns about student safety and the vetting of school employees. The school district has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement and is encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward.
As the legal process unfolds, the priority remains the safety and well-being of students.
When a trusted figure like a coach is accused of exploiting a minor, families are often left grappling with emotional fallout and unanswered questions about their legal rights. To provide clarity, we spoke with Florida sexual abuse attorney Jen Lipinski, who explained the potential legal steps available to families seeking accountability and support in the aftermath of such incidents.
Editor Darla Medina: When cases like this involve a trusted figure such as a coach, what legal options do families of the victims have?
Attorney Jen Lipinski: Thanks for having me, Darla. Families in these situations often feel overwhelmed, but there are legal avenues to consider. The first step is filing a criminal complaint, as was done here. Beyond that, families can explore civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and potentially the institution that employed them, particularly if there’s evidence the institution failed to act on prior warnings or didn’t properly screen the individual.
Medina: What kind of accountability could the school face in this case?
Lipinski: If it’s shown that the school ignored red flags or didn’t perform adequate background checks, they could be held liable for negligence. Schools are legally obligated to provide a safe environment for students, and any breach of that duty can open the door to civil claims.
Medina: What advice would you give to families dealing with this kind of trauma?
Lipinski: I would encourage families to document everything and seek both legal and emotional support. Reporting the abuse is critical, but they should also consider consulting an attorney experienced in abuse cases. This ensures the victim’s rights are protected and helps families navigate what can be a complex process.
Victims and their families deserve support, clarity, and justice during such a difficult time. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, don’t face it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and begin the path toward healing and accountability.
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