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A Vanderburgh County Circuit Court issued a warrant Tuesday for the arrest of Noah Mikael McBride, a 26-year-old track coach at North High School, located at 15331 US-41, Evansville, IN 47725, on several felony and misdemeanor charges, including allegations of child seduction and misconduct. The charges stem from a reported inappropriate relationship with a minor, according to the Evansville Courier & Press.
Court documents outline 14 charges against McBride, including four counts of Level 4 felony child seduction involving a professional relationship, four counts of Level 4 felony child seduction as a coach engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor, and several other charges ranging from solicitation to obstruction of justice. The alleged victim, a teenage girl, told investigators that McBride initiated contact when she was in middle school and that their interactions became sexual in the summer of 2023, when she was 15.
The affidavit provides disturbing details of the alleged interactions, which reportedly took place in various locations, including McBride's vehicle, his mother's home, a downtown parking lot, a former workplace, and North High School itself. The girl stated that McBride recorded some of their encounters and sent explicit images while requesting similar content from her.
As of Tuesday afternoon, McBride remained listed as an employee on North High School's website and the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation (EVSC) athletics page. EVSC spokesman Jason Woebkenberg issued a statement acknowledging the charges: "We have been informed by authorities that an employee is facing multiple felony charges. We will take the appropriate action once law enforcement has finished their investigation."
The school system has not confirmed whether McBride has been officially terminated or suspended.
The case's probable cause affidavit highlights the reported timeline of events, beginning with McBride messaging the girl on Instagram while she was still in middle school. Over time, the messages reportedly became flirtatious, leading to a series of sexual interactions. The girl told investigators these interactions occurred almost daily during the summer of 2023.
The affidavit also details an instance in which McBride allegedly threatened the girl to protect his reputation after their contact ended in late 2024. The girl disclosed these threats during a forensic interview at Holly’s House, a local child advocacy center.
As of Tuesday afternoon, McBride had not been booked into the Vanderburgh County jail. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet announced whether additional charges or arrests are expected.
When allegations of sexual abuse involve someone in a position of trust, such as a coach, survivors are often left wondering how to move forward. In this interview, seasoned Indiana attorney Jeff Gibson discusses the legal paths available to those who have experienced abuse by a high school coach, including the roles of civil lawsuits and institutional accountability. Gibson provides practical advice for survivors and highlights the importance of acting within the legal time limits to protect their rights.
Darla Medina (Editor): Given the allegations against a local high school coach, what legal options are available to individuals who have been abused by someone in a position of authority, such as a coach?
Jeff Gibson (Attorney): Survivors of abuse by a coach or other authority figure have multiple paths they can take. Criminal charges, as we see in this case, are pursued by the state. However, survivors also have the option to file a civil lawsuit against the individual and, in some cases, the institution they represented.
Medina: What would a civil lawsuit aim to achieve in these cases?
Gibson: A civil suit allows survivors to seek financial compensation for the harm they endured, including emotional distress, therapy costs, and other damages. It also holds the perpetrator—or any enabling parties—accountable in a way that complements the criminal process.
Medina: When you say enabling parties, are you referring to the school system or organizations involved?
Gibson: Potentially, yes. If a school or organization failed to take appropriate action to prevent the abuse or ignored warning signs, they could share liability. It’s critical to investigate whether proper safeguards were in place and whether any negligence contributed to the abuse.
Medina: For survivors considering legal action, how important is timing?
Gibson: It’s very important. Indiana law has statutes of limitations for civil claims involving child abuse. While some recent reforms have extended these timelines, survivors should consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure their rights are protected.
Medina: Thank you for explaining these options, Mr. Gibson. Do you have any advice for survivors who may feel hesitant to come forward?
Gibson: I would encourage them to prioritize their safety and well-being. Reaching out to law enforcement, a trusted advocate, or a legal professional can help them understand their options. They don’t have to face this alone, and there are resources and people ready to support them.
If your family has been impacted by sexual abuse involving a coach, don’t wait to explore your options. Understanding your rights and holding the responsible parties accountable can bring clarity and support during a difficult time. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation—our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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