Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
According to Indy Star, a former wrestling coach and substitute teacher at Cascade High School located at 6565 S County Rd 200 W, Clayton, IN 46118, has been arrested on accusations of engaging in sexual acts with a 17-year-old cheerleader.
Quinton Harris, 27, was taken into custody on Monday, August 12, 2024, at a residence in Plainfield and charged with two felony counts of child seduction by a childcare worker. The charges include allegations of sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with the underage student.
According to the police investigation, Harris worked at Cascade High School from November 2021 to February 2023, where he served as a wrestling coach and substitute teacher for the alleged victim's French, Spanish, and AP literature classes. Harris was also employed recently at Ben Davis High School, located at 1200 N Girls School Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46214, as a "lay coach." However, school officials have said that, at this time, they are not aware of any reports of misconduct at Ben Davis.
The investigation began on July 5th when the Avon Police Department was contacted about a "delayed child seduction allegation." The 17-year-old girl, who was a cheerleader at Cascade High when she met Harris, reported that their relationship had progressed from friendly to sexual in nature.
The girl told police that Harris had made comments such as "You're going to be 18 soon" and "Can't you just be 18 already." She also stated that she had been worried about future victims, which is why she decided to come forward two years later.
Harris initially denied knowing the girl, but later admitted to having text conversations and engaging in sexual acts with her, claiming he believed she was 18 at the time. Birth records, however, confirm that the girl was 17.
Jim Diagostino, the superintendent of the Mill Creek Community School Corporation, which includes Cascade High, expressed deep concern over the allegations in a message sent to parents. He assured that the school district will fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation and continue to review its hiring practices to address any potential areas of concern.
This developing story has sent shockwaves through the Cascade community, raising questions about the school's vetting process and the protection of student safety. As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further details and the pursuit of justice in this disturbing case.
The shocking arrest of a former Cascade High School coach on child seduction charges has raised urgent questions about the rights of victims and the responsibility of negligent schools. In the wake of this disturbing incident, our team sat down with experienced Indiana sexual abuse lawyer Jeff Gibson to discuss the legal options available and when schools can be held accountable for failing to protect their students from sexual abuse by a coach.
Editor Darla Medina: That's a critical point. For students and parents who may be affected by situations of grooming and school sexual abuse, what legal rights do they have?
Attorney Jeff Gibson: First, I would tell them not to hesitate to speak up and seek help. Victims of sexual abuse often feel ashamed or afraid, but it's important to remember that they are not to blame. There are resources and support services available to guide them through the process and ensure their rights are protected.
I would also encourage them to document any relevant information, such as communications with the perpetrator or the school's response. This can be crucial evidence in a civil case and help hold all responsible parties accountable.
Medina: Thank you, for providing this valuable insight. It's clear that the victims in these cases have options to seek justice and hold the school responsible if they failed in their duty to protect the students.
Gibson: You're welcome, Darla. Cases like this are always deeply disturbing, but it's important that victims know they have a voice and the legal system can provide them with the support and compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one have been affected by a similar situation, we encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. Our team of dedicated child sexual abuse attorneys is here to listen, provide support, and fight for the compensation and reform you deserve.
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