A high school teacher and basketball coach in New Jersey has been arrested and charged with serious offenses involving a minor, according to NBC Philadelphia. Authorities revealed that Justin McGhee, 35, a resident of Ocean Township, was taken into custody on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. He now faces charges of sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child who attended Middletown High School North located at 63 Tindall Rd, Middletown Township, NJ 07748.
The charges stem from an investigation that reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting McGhee engaged in sexual acts with an underage student. Officials stated that these interactions began late last year. McGhee is employed as a teacher and head coach for the girls' basketball team at Middletown High School North, located in Middletown, New Jersey.
Following his arrest, the school district has placed McGhee on leave as the case develops. He is currently being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution and awaits a preliminary hearing.
Law enforcement has emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information about McGhee's actions to contact Detective Ricardo Cruz of the Middletown Township Police Department at 732-615-2120.
This case continues to unfold, drawing attention from both the local community and beyond.
When allegations of sexual abuse emerge, victims and their families are often left feeling overwhelmed, unsure of their rights, and uncertain about the steps they can take to hold responsible parties accountable. In a conversation with attorney Stewart Ryan, an experienced advocate for survivors of abuse by school officials, we explore the legal pathways available for those impacted by such cases. From understanding the role of civil lawsuits to addressing institutional negligence, Mr. Ryan offers a detailed perspective on how families can navigate these challenging situations.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal rights do victims and their families have when it comes to situations like this?
Attorney Stewart Ryan: Victims and their families have multiple avenues to seek justice. Beyond the criminal charges brought by law enforcement, there’s also the option of pursuing civil litigation. This allows victims and their families to hold not only the perpetrator accountable but also any institution that may have failed to protect the victim. For example, if a school or district ignored warning signs or failed to enforce proper safeguards, they could be found negligent.
Medina: What kinds of safeguards should schools have in place to protect students?
Ryan: Schools should have strict hiring practices, regular staff training on identifying and preventing abuse, and clear channels for students to report misconduct. They should also enforce policies that limit unsupervised access to students, such as one-on-one meetings or unsanctioned activities outside of school. When these safeguards are overlooked or ignored, it creates an environment where predators can exploit vulnerabilities.
Medina: How can parents of victims hold these institutions accountable?
Ryan: Through civil lawsuits, families can investigate whether the institution acted negligently. This could involve reviewing whether complaints were ignored, policies were violated, or background checks were inadequate. If negligence is proven, institutions may be required to provide compensation for the emotional, psychological, and financial damages endured by the victim and their family.
Medina: What challenges do families typically face when pursuing civil cases in these situations?
Ryan: One of the biggest hurdles is the emotional toll. Reliving traumatic events during investigations or trials can be incredibly difficult for victims. Additionally, institutions often have legal teams that try to minimize their liability, which can make the process daunting. However, with experienced legal representation, families can navigate these challenges and work toward justice.
If your child has been a victim of sexual abuse by a coach or other trusted adult, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your legal options is an important step in protecting your family and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you seek justice and closure.