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Breaking Legal News
According to ABC 15, Patrick Battillo, a high school varsity boys' basketball coach and a well-known Suns Valley sports fan known as "Mr. ORNG," has been arrested on charges related to child sex crimes. The arrest was made by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday.
The investigation began on Tuesday morning when the Peoria Police Department received information about a sexual offense involving an employee at Peoria High School, located at 11200 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345. It was revealed that 37-year-old Patrick Battillo had allegedly solicited inappropriate photos and videos from underage students in exchange for money.
According to authorities, Battillo had been requesting the juvenile victims to send explicit videos and photos of themselves engaged in various sexual acts and states of nudity. The Peoria Police Department conducted a thorough investigation, interviewing those involved, and gathering evidence.
Battillo was apprehended in Goodyear and subsequently booked into the Maricopa County Jail on multiple charges, including luring a minor for sexual exploitation and child sex trafficking. The arrest has sent shockwaves through the community, as Battillo had gained popularity over the years for his passionate support of the Phoenix Suns, often seen dressed entirely in orange at games.
Additionally, another employee, 46-year-old Holly Holgate, was also arrested in connection with the case. Holgate, a teacher at Peoria High School, was charged with hindering prosecution and failing to report child abuse or neglect. It is alleged that she tipped off Battillo about the police investigation, enabling him to leave the school before his arrest.
The Peoria Unified School District has issued a statement expressing their concern for the victims and their commitment to supporting them. They are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation conducted by the Peoria Police Department. The district confirmed that Battillo had undergone a fingerprint and background check clearance when he began coaching in 2019, and no prior reports of misconduct had been brought to their attention.
In response to the recent arrest of the high school coach, we sat down with experienced Arizona sex abuse lawyer Kevin Biniazan, to explore the legal rights available to victims of sexual abuse by high school coaches. We discussed the steps survivors can take to seek justice and hold negligent schools responsible for their actions. Join us as Mr. Biniazan provides valuable insights into the legal process and offers guidance for victims of school sex crimes.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Mr. Biniazan, thank you for being here.
Kevin Biniazan, Esq. (KB): Thank you, Darla. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss such an important matter.
DM: Absolutely. Let's start by addressing the rights of the victims of sexual misconduct by a coach. What legal recourse do they have?
KB: Victims of sexual abuse by a high school coach have various legal avenues to pursue. They may be entitled to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and potentially the school district for negligence or failure to protect the students. It's crucial for victims to consult with an attorney experienced in handling sexual abuse cases, as they can guide them through the legal process and help protect their rights.
DM: That's valuable information, Mr. Biniazan. How can negligent schools be held accountable?
KB: Negligent schools can be held accountable through legal action. The key is establishing that the school had knowledge or should have had knowledge of the abuse and failed to take appropriate measures to prevent it. This can include inadequate background checks, lack of supervision, or ignoring warning signs. Holding schools accountable not only seeks justice for the victims but also encourages improved safety measures to protect students in the future.
DM: Thank you for highlighting the importance of accountability, Mr. Biniazan. For individuals who may be hesitant to come forward, what advice would you offer?
KB: It's understandable that survivors of sexual abuse may feel hesitant to come forward due to fear, shame, or uncertainty about the legal process. My advice would be to reach out to a compassionate and experienced attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can provide support, guide individuals through the legal steps, and help protect their privacy during the proceedings. It's essential to remember that survivors have the right to seek justice and hold their abusers and negligent institutions accountable.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Biniazan, for sharing the legal rights available to victims of sexual abuse.
KB: It's been my pleasure, Darla. My hope is that by raising awareness and empowering survivors, we can contribute to a safer environment for all students.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse by a high school coach, it is essential to seek legal support and protect your rights. Our experienced team, including sexual assault attorney Kevin Biniazan, is here to help. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are committed to providing compassionate guidance throughout the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation, where we can discuss your situation, answer your questions, and provide the support you need during this challenging time. Your voice deserves to be heard, and we are here to stand with you every step of the way.
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