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PennLive reported that a former youth baseball coach has been charged with the repeated rape of an 8-year-old girl, just a day after he was accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy.
Jeromy Paul Baum, 46, of Halifax in Dauphin County, was initially arrested on March 20, 2024, in connection with the sexual assault of a teenage boy at the teen's home in Perry County. However, the investigation took an even darker twist when the mother of a child Baum had access to in 2014 came forward with a shocking revelation.
The investigation into Baum began after the 15-year-old boy reported meeting Baum in person after communicating on the app Grindr. The boy told troopers he believed he was talking to a 16-year-old on the app and that when they agreed to meet, Baum came to the house and performed sexual acts despite knowing the boy was a minor.
State police say the teen also contacted Baum on Snapchat, and the two agreed to meet again at the boy's home. Troopers were staged inside the boy's home when Baum arrived and arrested him. According to court records, Baum admitted to speaking with the boy on Snapchat and Grindr, receiving nude images from the victim, and engaging in sexual acts with the minor.
According to court records, the mother spoke to her daughter about sexual violence, prompting the girl to disclose that Baum had raped her when she was 8 to 9 years old. The girl told police that Baum would sneak into her room while her mother worked the overnight shift, repeatedly raping her over several months until her mother's work schedule changed.
The victim said she never told anyone about the abuse because Baum had threatened to hurt her and asked her to remain silent, fearing he would get into trouble.
Police have now charged Baum with rape of a child and related offenses in connection with the rape of the 8-year-old girl. He was previously charged on March 20 with deviate sexual intercourse, corruption of minors, and unlawful contact with a minor for the assault of the 15-year-old boy.
Baum remains in jail with a bail set at $1.5 million.
Baum served as a coach for the Shermans Dale Blue Jays approximately 10 to 15 years ago within the West Perry Youth Baseball Association. State police believe Baum may have sexually abused other children, and are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact the state police's Newport barracks at 717-567-3110.
In response to the recent cases involving sexual abuse by youth coaches, it is imperative to highlight the legal rights available to victims who have endured such heinous acts. In this interview, experienced sexual assault attorney Brian Kent, Esq., shares the legal options and support systems in place for those affected by these traumatic experiences. Join the discussion on protecting victims and seeking justice for survivors of youth coach sexual abuse.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Thank you for being here, Mr. Kent. After learning about the recent shocking case involving a former youth baseball coach, can you elaborate on the legal rights available for victims who have been sexually abused by a coach?
Brian Kent, Esq. (BK): Thank you for having me, Darla. Victims of sexual abuse by a youth coach have legal avenues to pursue justice and seek compensation for their suffering. Pennsylvania has laws in place to protect vulnerable victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
DM: That's important to know. Could you provide some insights into the specific legal options available for these victims?
BK: Absolutely. Victims can file civil lawsuits against their abusers, seeking damages for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm they have endured. These lawsuits can also hold institutions or organizations responsible for their negligence in preventing or addressing the abuse. In Pennsylvania, victims may have the opportunity to file claims under the state's statute of limitations, which has been expanded in recent years.
DM: That's interesting. What advice would you give to victims who may be hesitant to come forward or unsure about pursuing legal action?
BK: It's completely understandable for victims to feel hesitant or unsure about coming forward. However, I encourage them to reach out to an experienced child sexual abuse lawyer who can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. It's essential for victims to know that they have rights and that they are not alone in their fight for justice.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Kent. It's reassuring to know that there are legal avenues available for victims of sexual abuse by youth coaches. We appreciate your insights.
BK: Thank you, Darla. We must continue to raise awareness and seek justice for victims of child sexual abuse.
As victims and their families navigate these difficult situations, it's important to remember that they are not alone. There are resources and legal professionals available to provide the support and guidance they need. If you or someone you know has been affected by child sexual abuse, we encourage you to reach out to our team for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to listen, offer compassionate support, and help you explore your legal options. Together, we can work towards accountability, healing, and a future where no child has to endure such trauma.
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