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Damion Coleman Jr., a substitute teacher and Junior High football coach in Portsmouth, OH, has been charged with pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and sexual battery involving a minor. Coleman Jr. was arrested on Wednesday afternoon as students were being dismissed from school. Police executed a search warrant at his residence, seizing evidence connected to the case, according to WSAZ.
Coleman Jr. was arraigned Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m. and has been placed under electronically monitored house arrest. His preliminary hearing is set for September 10 at 10 a.m. Authorities allege that Coleman Jr. engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a female minor.
The Portsmouth City School District has taken immediate steps to support students and staff following these events. Superintendent Matthew McCorkle stated that a meeting was held Thursday morning with Junior High football players, during which counselors and trusted staff were made available to provide emotional support.
“The varsity football coach is going to come down and be on the sidelines with the assistants,” said McCorkle. “You had five other assistant coaches who are as shocked as we are.”
Additionally, the Junior High principal has been present to assist students who may need further guidance or support throughout the day.
The district has announced plans to hold a meeting with parents after the first Junior High football game to address the transition and discuss the search for a new coach. Officials have also confirmed they are proceeding with terminating Coleman Jr.’s employment.
Portsmouth Police are encouraging anyone with information about Damion Coleman Jr. or this case to contact Detective Stacy Croasmun at 740-354-1600. The department is committed to gathering any details that may aid in the investigation.
When authority figures, such as coaches are accused of sexual misconduct, victims and their families often find themselves navigating a complex legal system while grappling with emotional trauma. Ohio sexual abuse attorney John Bey shares actionable information on the legal steps victims can take, the responsibilities of institutions like schools, and how families can seek accountability for those involved in such cases.
Editor Darla Medina: In cases like this, where a local school football coach is accused of sexual misconduct with a minor, what legal steps can victims and their families take?
Attorney John Bey: Victims and their families have several options. First, they can cooperate with the criminal investigation, as prosecutors will work to hold the accused accountable under state law. In addition, victims may have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the individual and, in some cases, the institutions involved, such as a school district, if there’s evidence of negligence in hiring, supervision, or response to prior complaints.
Medina: When does a school district become liable in these situations?
Bey: A district may be held liable if it failed to properly screen the individual during the hiring process or ignored red flags about their behavior. If a pattern of misconduct is uncovered and the district didn’t act to protect students, that could also lead to liability. These cases often require a thorough investigation to determine who knew what and when.
Medina: What advice do you have for families who suspect misconduct by a trusted figure like a coach?
Bey: If there’s any suspicion of inappropriate behavior, families should report it to law enforcement immediately. It’s also important to speak with an attorney who has experience in these types of cases to understand their rights and the full range of legal options available. Protecting children and ensuring accountability should always be the priority.
If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual abuse involving a trusted authority figure, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your legal rights is the first step in holding the responsible parties accountable and finding a path forward. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. We are here to support you every step of the way.
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