Waldorf, MD - Former Volunteer Westlake High School Track Coach, Michael Roberts, Accused of Sexually Abusing Former Student

Former Student Allegedly Sexually Abused By High School Principal's Son

7 News has reported that a former volunteer coach was charged with child sex crimes while serving at Westlake High School located at 3300 Middletown Rd, Waldorf, MD 20603. 

According to police, 32-year-old Michael Roberts was arrested for allegedly sexually abusing a former student at the high school. Roberts was serving as a volunteer track coach at the time of the abuse that was said to have occurred in June. He served as a coach from 2018 to June 2022. Charles County deputies received the information and relayed it to the superintendent. Roberts is also the son of the Westlake High School principal, Diane Roberts. 

Roberts has been removed from all duties with the school district. He is facing charges, including sexual abuse of a minor. Police are worried that there may have been additional victims.

Justice for Victims Sexually Abused By a High School Coach

Attorney contributor Aaron Blank is an experienced sex abuse lawyer helping victims of school sex abuse seek justice by filing civil lawsuits. Aaron shared his insight regarding when a family can sue if a high school coach sexually abused their child. 

"High schools have a moral and legal obligation to keep their students safe from preventable dangers on campus. Sadly, we hear of many predators taking up employment within a high school, allowing them access to children. It is crucial to determine if the abuse could have been prevented when a high school coach is charged with sexually abusing a student. If a school did not fulfill its responsibility to keep a safe campus, it could be held liable. Schools and school districts can help to reduce the risk of campus threats by conducting background checks, installing surveillance cameras, and doing frequent security sweeps. Additionally, any reports of misconduct should be investigated and relayed to the authorities."

"If the school was aware of previous inappropriate behavior by a coach but did not report it, they could be held accountable. If the school or district is found to be negligent, victims of high school sexual abuse may be able to file a lawsuit. School sex abuse victims and their families can learn more about their options by consulting with an experienced school sex abuse lawyer."

Sources:

7 News