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Breaking Legal News
What began as a simple post on a local Facebook page has now grown into a case that has shaken the North Little Rock community. Kenneth Womack, a 33-year-old dance instructor, is facing serious allegations after a minor reported being sexually assaulted earlier this month, according to THV11.
Authorities quickly acted on the report, leading to Womack’s arrest. He now faces multiple charges, including rape and assault. Parents, dancers, and community members alike are grappling with the deeply troubling nature of the allegations.
For Myisha Green, whose daughter was once part of a competitive dance team that interacted with Womack's group, the news came as a shock. "I always thought it was a safe spot. I didn’t think nothing else but that," Green shared, reflecting on the sense of security she once felt.
Green explained that even before the allegations surfaced, some parents had expressed apprehensions about Womack. "We were not aware of it until he formed his dance team and he was about to have his first competition," she said.
Those early concerns prompted parents in the dance community to issue warnings to others, urging vigilance. "Our dance team made sure that they informed the parents. Like, you know, hey, [watch] this person, watch your kid's social media," Green added.
Despite her efforts to alert schools about Womack’s alleged behavior, Green said her warnings were disregarded. "You’re not listening to me. You’re not hearing what I’m warning you and telling you," she expressed with frustration.
LaKese Hicks, assistant director of Women and Children First—a non-profit that supports survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence—emphasized the importance of taking such concerns seriously. “It’s not our job to question whether the story is real or not. Our job is to validate and believe them,” Hicks stated.
Hicks also highlighted the role of education in preventing harm, saying, "We can help you use the right words, even if that means maybe we need to be a part of that conversation."
On Tuesday, Womack appeared in court and entered a plea of not guilty. He has since been released on bond, though the case remains under investigation.
When allegations of sexual assault by a dance instructor, the path forward can feel overwhelming for survivors and their families. In an interview, Arkansas-based attorney Joshua Gillespie shares practical guidance on the legal steps available to those affected by such abuse, including criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and holding institutions accountable for negligence.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Gillespie. For survivors of sexual assault in situations involving authority figures like coaches or instructors, what legal steps can they take?
Attorney Joshua Gillespie: Survivors have both criminal and civil options. On the criminal side, reporting the incident to law enforcement is the first step. From there, the legal system investigates and, if charges are filed, works to prosecute the accused. This is critical not only for holding the individual accountable but also for ensuring public safety.
Medina: And on the civil side?
Gillespie: Survivors can file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator, seeking damages for the physical and emotional harm caused. Depending on the circumstances, they may also have a case against organizations or institutions if there was negligence in preventing the abuse. For example, if warnings were ignored by schools or organizations, they could be liable for failing to act on those concerns.
Medina: What challenges might survivors face in these cases?
Gillespie: A significant challenge is often proving the allegations, especially if there isn’t physical evidence or if the abuse occurred over an extended period. That’s why documentation, witnesses, and expert testimony can play a vital role. Survivors should seek legal counsel immediately to ensure their rights are protected and their case is built as strongly as possible.
If your child has experienced sexual abuse by a dance instructor, know that you are not alone. Legal options are available to help protect your family and seek accountability for the harm caused. Contact us today for a free consultation—our team is here to provide the support, guidance, and representation you need during this challenging time.
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