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According to ABC7, a former cheerleading coach has been charged with multiple felonies for molesting six young girls, some as young as 11 years old. The accused, 44-year-old Erick Joseph Kristianson from Antioch, Tennessee, allegedly carried out these heinous acts while coaching at Magic All-Stars in Orange County and Trabuco Hills High School located at 27501 Mustang Run, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.
The allegations against Kristianson do not stop at Orange County in California. He is also facing child molestation and child exhibition charges in Florida, related to four young cheerleaders he coached in Daytona Beach, FL. Investigators have revealed that Kristianson worked as a cheer coach for Magic All-Stars from 2002 to 2008 and as an assistant cheer coach at Trabuco Hills High School in 2005. It was during this time that he allegedly had access to six young girls whom he has been accused of sexually molesting in Orange County.
The shocking details of Kristianson's alleged crimes came to light in 2022, following his arrest in Daytona Beach, Florida. As news reports regarding Kristianson's arrest spread in Florida, a courageous young woman contacted authorities in Orange County, revealing that she too had been molested by him when she was just 14 years old. Kristianson would allegedly pick her up from school or take her home from cheer practice, engaging in sexual activity with her until she turned 16.
"Pedophiles will never stop stalking and grooming their prey unless they are stopped," said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. "This was not a predator hiding in the shadows waiting to grab innocent girls. He was hiding in plain sight as he assaulted girl after girl, thinking he would never be caught because they trusted him as a coach. Thankfully, he is in custody, and the Orange County District Attorney's Office will do everything it can to ensure he is held accountable for assaulting these young girls who thought they could trust him."
Authorities strongly believe that there may be more victims who have yet to come forward. The Orange County District Attorney's Office is urging the public to assist in the investigation by providing any information that could help identify additional potential victims. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact Investigator Austin Jones of the Orange County Sheriff's Department at 714-647-4016.
The Orange County District Attorney's Office has formally charged Kristianson with numerous counts, including lewd or lascivious acts with a minor under 14, lewd acts upon a child aged 14 or 15, sexual penetration by a foreign object of a minor under 18, sexual penetration by a foreign object of a minor under 16, and oral copulation of child under 16. He is facing up to 105 years to life in prison if found guilty.
In light of the recent arrest of a former cheerleading coach, we sat down with experienced California child sex abuse lawyer, Jason Amala, to explore the legal options available to victims of sexual abuse by a cheerleading coach. By digging into the complexities of civil litigation, this interview provides valuable guidance on how victims and their families can hold abusers and negligent parties accountable while also securing the resources necessary for their recovery and healing.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Bobby, can you share some insight into the rights and recourse victims of similar incidents may have?
Jason Amala, Esq. (JA): Absolutely. Victims of sexual abuse by a figure of authority, such as a cheerleading coach, have the right to seek justice through civil litigation. They can file lawsuits not only against the abuser but also any institutions or organizations that may have failed to protect them or covered up the abuse. These civil cases allow victims to hold all responsible parties accountable and potentially obtain compensation to aid in their recovery process.
DM: That's an important point. How can these civil cases help victims move forward and find a sense of closure?
JA: Civil cases empower victims by giving them a voice and a platform to share their stories. The legal process can provide a sense of validation and accountability that is often lacking in the criminal justice system alone.
Additionally, the compensation awarded in these cases can be vital in accessing necessary counseling, therapy, and other support services to aid in the healing journey. It's crucial for victims to understand that they have options to address the profound impact of the abuse they've endured.
DM: Thank you for providing this valuable perspective, Bobby. It's clear that victims of sexual abuse by authority figures have legal recourse to seek justice and support their recovery.
JA: You're welcome. I encourage sexual abuse victims or their families to reach out to experienced legal counsel to explore their options and take the first steps toward accountability and healing.
For victims and their families grappling with the aftermath of sexual abuse by a figure of authority, such as a cheerleading coach, the path forward can seem daunting. However, it is crucial to understand that you have legal recourse and the right to seek justice. Our team of experienced child sex abuse attorneys is dedicated to providing compassionate guidance and representation to help you navigate the complexities of civil litigation. Reach out to us today for a free consultation to explore how we can support you in your journey towards accountability, healing, and securing the resources necessary for your recovery.
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