Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
News 12 New Jersey reported that Ryan Gunsauls, a 32-year-old youth soccer coach and volunteer firefighter in Union Beach, New Jersey, has been charged with more than two dozen child sex offenses. The allegations are deeply disturbing, with Gunsauls accused of preying on young players as young as 11 years old.
Gunsauls was the coach of soccer teams belonging to the Union Beach Soccer Association, which played at Helen Hayes Soccer Complex, Edmunds Field, Iff Fields, and Scholar Park Rink. He was also a volunteer firefighter with the Union Beach Fire Company No. 1. He had previously worked as a police dispatcher in the town until that position was eliminated in 2023.
According to the authorities, Gunsauls is facing charges for touching two of his players inappropriately and sending graphic images of himself to multiple boys through a social media app. Investigators also say he received explicit pictures from some of the players and shared them with others. The victims range in age from 11 to 17 years old.
Parents of the soccer players were first notified about Gunsauls' removal from the team in a group chat on May 3, 2024. The Union Beach police then contacted the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office on May 7, leading to Gunsauls' arrest four days later.
Investigators believe there could be more victims, and they are urging potential victims to come forward and contact the Union Beach Police or the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office.
Gunsauls remains in jail and faces decades behind bars if found guilty. A detention hearing has been set for May 20, 2024.
In the wake of this devastating news, we sat down with Stewart Ryan, Esq., an experienced New Jersey sexual assault lawyer, to discuss the legal rights and options available to the victims and their families in cases of youth sports sexual abuse. Ryan provided valuable guidance on navigating the complex criminal and civil justice system, as well as advice for those seeking justice and accountability.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Thank you for joining us, Mr. Ryan. As a sexual abuse attorney, what are the main legal rights and avenues of recourse available to the victims who have been sexually assaulted by a youth sports coach?
Stewart Ryan, Esq. (SR): Well, Darla, this is a truly horrific situation. The victims have several important rights and legal options available to them. First and foremost, they have the right to seek justice through the criminal justice system.
Additionally, victims may be able to pursue civil claims against not only the coach, but also any organizations or entities that may have been negligent in their duty to protect these young players.
Through civil lawsuits, the victims would have the opportunity to obtain compensation for the harm they've suffered, as well as ensure that proper safeguards are put in place to prevent such abuses from happening again in the future.
DM: That's very helpful information, Mr. Ryan. What advice would you give to the families and victims in this case as they navigate the legal system and seek accountability?
SR: The most important thing I would suggest to victims and their families is to seek the support of experienced, compassionate legal counsel who specializes in sexual abuse cases. These types of proceedings can be incredibly complex and emotionally draining, and having the right legal team in their corner can make all the difference.
I would also encourage the victims to be proactive in reporting any and all information they have to the authorities, as this will strengthen the criminal case against the perpetrator. And when it comes to any civil claims, it's crucial that they act quickly to preserve evidence and document the harm they've suffered.
Above all, I want the victims to know that they are not alone, and that there are resources and professionals available to help them through this difficult process and to fight for the justice they deserve.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Ryan, for providing such valuable insight.
SR: You're very welcome, Darla.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, we urge you to reach out to an experienced sexual assault attorney. Our team provides compassionate, confidential assistance and will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and that the responsible parties are held accountable.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Together, we can navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards healing and closure. You have survived the unthinkable, and we are here to help you seek the justice and support you need.
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