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The Mercury News reported that David Teel, a former youth swim coach, has been sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of sexual abuse. The 57-year-old was officially sentenced in November 2024 and has since been transferred to North Kern State Prison.
The plea deal concludes a legal battle that began in 2020 when Teel was accused of sexually abusing a teenage swim student at the now shuttered Oakland Baraccudas. He entered a no contest plea to two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor, both felonies, while prosecutors dropped numerous other charges.
The abuse took place in the early 2000s, but the victim did not report it until 2019 due to fears of public exposure. During a 2022 preliminary hearing, she described the trauma inflicted by Teel, stating that the abuse occurred up to four times a day during swim lessons. “At least once a day, but that would be an easy day,” she testified.
In 2010, the victim reported Teel to a national governing body for swim competitions, which led to his coaching ban. By the time he faced charges, Teel had moved to Boston, evading immediate legal repercussions.
Teel spent only 32 days in jail before finalizing the plea deal. He may qualify for a reduction of his three-year sentence by up to half for good behavior. During the preliminary hearing, his attorney suggested the victim was lying to support a civil lawsuit and claimed other students disputed her allegations. However, the judge found her testimony credible, establishing probable cause for the abuse.
In the aftermath of a sexual abuse case involving a swim coach, many parents and victims face uncertainty about their legal options. To provide clarity on this important issue, we spoke with Jason Amala, an experienced Oakland attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. He shares valuable information on the rights of victims and the steps necessary to hold negligent parties accountable through civil lawsuits.
Editor Darla Medina: Today, we’re joined by Jason Amala, an experienced attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases here in Oakland. Jason, can you explain the legal rights available to victims who have been abused by someone in a position of trust, like a swim coach?
Attorney Jason Amala: Absolutely, Darla. Victims have various legal avenues they can explore. First and foremost, they can file a criminal complaint against the perpetrator, which, as we’ve seen in this case, can lead to criminal charges and potential incarceration. Additionally, victims can pursue civil lawsuits against both the abuser and any organizations that may have been negligent in protecting them.
Medina: What does a civil lawsuit entail for victims, and how can they hold negligent parties accountable?
Amala: A civil lawsuit allows victims to seek financial compensation for the harm they’ve suffered. This can include medical expenses, therapy costs, and damages for emotional distress. To hold negligent parties accountable, the victim must demonstrate that the organization failed to provide a safe environment or neglected to take appropriate actions when allegations were made.
Medina: Are there time limits for victims to file these lawsuits?
Amala: Yes, each state has statutes of limitations that dictate how long victims have to file. In California, for many sexual abuse cases, this period can extend up to several years, especially if the victim was a minor at the time of the abuse. It’s crucial for victims to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand their specific rights and options.
Medina: What advice do you have for someone who may be hesitant to come forward?
Amala: I would encourage anyone who has been a victim to speak out. There are legal protections in place, and support services available to help navigate this difficult process. Remember, you are not alone, and there are advocates ready to assist you in seeking justice and healing.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, remember that you are not alone. It’s vital to understand your rights and the options available to you. We encourage victims and their families to reach out to us for a free consultation. Together, we can navigate the path to justice and support your journey toward healing. Contact us today to discuss your case confidentially.
Sources:
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