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A youth soccer coach in Snoqualmie, WA has been arrested on charges of sending inappropriate messages to a teenage girl. The arrest of 28-year-old Joshua Lewis occurred at Jeanne Hansen Park, located at 34226 SE Jacobia St, Snoqualmie, WA 98065, on Thursday, September 19, 2024, around 5:20 p.m., according to Fox 13 Seattle.
The investigation began when the mother of a 15-year-old girl reported that her daughter was receiving explicit Snapchat messages from Lewis, who coaches other girls in the Cascade FC program. Although not her daughter’s direct coach, Lewis was known within the youth soccer community.
Charging documents reveal troubling behavior during a team tournament in San Diego last month. Lewis was reportedly seen engaging in questionable activities with several girls in the ocean, prompting concerns from parents at the scene.
In late August, the mother disclosed that Lewis sent her daughter sexual messages and an explicit photo via Snapchat. Although Lewis deleted his account shortly after these communications, the mother managed to preserve some messages for authorities.
Detectives conducted interviews with parents, uncovering additional troubling claims. One parent mentioned that their daughter alleged Lewis had inappropriately touched her several years prior during a pool gathering, describing the encounter as anything but accidental.
By the end of the day, investigators had gathered sufficient evidence to detain Lewis, who is currently held on $100,000 bail at King County Jail.
Cascade FC has placed Lewis on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The organization confirmed that all coaches undergo annual background checks and are required to complete SafeSport training, which focuses on recognizing and preventing abuse in sports.
Snoqualmie police believe there may be further victims who have yet to report similar incidents. They urge anyone with relevant information to contact them at (425) 888-3333.
In the wake of the recent arrest of a Snoqualmie youth soccer coach for sending explicit messages to a teenage girl, many are left questioning the legal avenues available for victims of child sexual abuse by a youth coach. To better understand these rights and how to hold negligent parties accountable, we met with Mike Pfau, an experienced sexual abuse lawyer based in Washington.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining me. What legal rights do victims of child sex abuse have in cases like this?
Attorney Mike Pfau: Victims have the right to seek justice through criminal and civil avenues. They can report the abuse to law enforcement, which can lead to criminal charges against the perpetrator. Additionally, victims may file civil lawsuits against the abuser and potentially against organizations that failed to protect them.
DM: How can victims hold negligent parties accountable?
MP: To hold negligent parties accountable, victims can show that the organization, like a sport or soccer club, didn't take adequate measures to ensure safety. This includes failing to conduct proper background checks or not acting on prior complaints.
DM: What should victims do if they feel hesitant about coming forward?
MP: It’s important for victims to know they’re not alone. Speaking with a trusted adult or a legal professional can help them understand their options and provide support. There are also many resources available specifically for child abuse survivors.
DM: Thank you for your valuable perspective on this sensitive issue.
If you or someone you know has been affected by child sexual abuse, it’s important to seek help. Victims and their families can contact us for a free consultation to discuss their rights and options. You don’t have to face this alone; our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support during this difficult time.
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