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In a court hearing last week, bond was denied for 74-year-old Jimmy Ronald Anderson, a taekwondo instructor facing serious allegations of sexually abusing victims during lessons at his Taekwondo studio located at 301 South Buncombe Road in Greer, according to WYFF. Anderson, charged with four counts of lewd acts and one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, appeared before the judge as three victims gave emotional testimonies.
The first victim, a former student, described her encounter with Anderson at a restaurant, which prompted her to come forward. She urged the judge not to release him on bond, citing her previous report to Greer Police back in 2020. Although Anderson’s attorney, Ryan Beasley, stated that his client voluntarily cooperated with investigators at the time, the judge revealed that Anderson failed to appear for a polygraph test. The state criticized Greer Police for mishandling the case, but the department defended its actions, attributing the case's closure in 2021 to a lack of follow-up communication from the reporting party.
Another victim, who said Anderson abused him as a child, requested a high surety bond during his statement. The third victim, a former taekwondo student, shared harrowing details of abuse that allegedly began when she was as young as four or five and continued until her mid-teens. She claimed Anderson threatened her into silence.
Court officials noted Anderson’s troubling past, including a 2004 charge for committing a lewd act with a child, which placed him on the sex offender registry. The state expressed confusion over how Anderson was able to continue working with children despite his criminal record. There is also speculation that the third victim in this case may be the same individual from the 2004 offense, raising further questions about oversight.
Although bond was denied, the judge granted Anderson the opportunity for a new hearing within 60 days to further examine the allegations brought forward by the third victim. This case has raised significant concerns about gaps in the legal system that may have allowed Anderson to maintain access to young students despite his prior conviction.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is left grappling with questions about accountability and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Victims of sexual abuse often face overwhelming emotional and legal challenges when seeking accountability. With recent sex abuse allegations against taekwondo instructor Jimmy Ronald Anderson sparking outrage, attorney James Moore, a seasoned South Carolina lawyer specializing in sexual abuse cases, discusses the available legal avenues for survivors. From criminal proceedings to civil lawsuits, Moore outlines how victims can take action and highlights the responsibilities of institutions in preventing such tragedies.
Editor Darla Medina: Given the allegations against the local Taekwondo instructor, what legal avenues are available for victims in cases like this?
Attorney James Moore: Victims of abuse like this have several options. Beyond the criminal case being pursued by the state, they can also file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator to seek damages for emotional and psychological harm.
Medina: Can these lawsuits extend beyond the individual accused?
Moore: Absolutely. If there’s evidence that an organization or institution, such as the taekwondo school or any governing body overseeing his instruction, failed to act on warning signs or ignored his prior convictions, they could also be held liable. This is particularly relevant here, given Anderson’s presence on the sex offender registry and the apparent lack of safeguards.
Medina: What challenges might victims face when coming forward?
Moore: Victims often deal with fear, shame, or concerns about being believed, especially when the abuse occurred years ago. There may also be legal hurdles, such as statutes of limitations, though some states, including South Carolina, have adjusted these laws for certain types of abuse cases.
Medina: With Anderson’s past conviction coming into question, how does that factor into the case?
Moore: His prior conviction could play a significant role. It could establish a pattern of behavior, which strengthens the victims’ cases in both criminal and civil contexts. It also raises serious questions about how he was allowed continued access to children, which could lead to broader scrutiny of systemic failures.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse, you don’t have to face this alone. Legal options are available to help hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process with compassion and dedication. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and start reclaiming your voice and your rights.
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