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Greene County Prosecuting Attorney David D. Hayes has announced that Eriks Gunars Fricsons, a 54-year-old resident of Fairborn, has been sentenced to 12 to 16 years in prison for sexually oriented offenses involving two child victims. The sentence was handed down by Greene County Common Pleas Judge Adolfo A. Tornichio, following Fricsons' guilty plea to 24 counts of Sexual Battery and 26 counts of Pandering Sexually Oriented Matter Involving a Minor according to a Green County press release dated December 12, 2024.
The investigation revealed that Fricsons, who served as a high school teacher and Junior ROTC instructor at Fairborn High School, exploited his position to engage in an intimate relationship with a high school student facing family issues. Fricsons allowed the victim to stay in his home, where he provided alcohol and marijuana, leading to the illicit relationship. A search warrant executed at his residence uncovered obscene material, which resulted in the second set of charges.
Fricoons was arrested on May 6, 2022, and has remained in custody without bail since then. Upon his release from prison, he will face a mandatory five-year period of Post-Release Control and will be supervised by the Adult Parole Authority. Additionally, he is required to register as a Tier-III Sex Offender, necessitating in-person verification every 90 days for life.
In the aftermath of the disturbing case involving former JROTC director Eriks Fricsons, many victims may feel uncertain about their rights and the steps they can take if their child has been victimized by a trusted instructor. To provide clarity, we spoke with Ohio sexual abuse attorney John Bey. He offers valuable information on the legal options available to those affected by sexual abuse in educational settings, including how to hold negligent parties accountable and the importance of accessing support resources.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us today, John. Given the disturbing case of Eriks Fricsons, what legal rights do victims of sexual abuse by someone in a position of authority, like a ROTC coordinator, have?
Attorney John Bey: Victims have several legal avenues available to them. First and foremost, they can pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator, as we’ve seen in this case. Additionally, they may have grounds for a civil lawsuit against the individual and potentially the institution that employed them, especially if there was negligence in supervision or reporting.
Medina: What does negligence look like in these situations?
Bey: Negligence can manifest in various ways. For instance, if the school or program failed to conduct appropriate background checks or ignored previous allegations, they could be held liable. Institutions have a responsibility to protect their students, and when they fail to do so, they may face legal consequences.
Medina: How can victims begin the process of holding these parties accountable?
Bey: The first step is to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can help navigate the complexities of both criminal and civil processes. It's also vital for victims to gather any evidence or documentation related to their experiences, as this can significantly strengthen their case.
Medina: What support systems are available for victims beyond legal action?
Bey: Support is critical. Many organizations offer counseling and resources for victims of abuse. It's important for survivors to connect with these services, as they provide emotional and psychological assistance, helping to foster healing.
Medina: Thank you, John, for sharing your insights on this important topic. Victims need to know they have options and support as they navigate their paths to healing and accountability.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse, it’s vital to know that you are not alone. Our team is here to support you in navigating the legal process and seeking the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step towards healing and accountability. Your voice matters, and we are ready to stand by your side.
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