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Authorities are requesting assistance from the community following the arrest of a girls' volleyball coach on serious charges involving inappropriate conduct with a minor, according to WPTV.
Arturo "Arty" Gonzalez, a coach affiliated with both a local high school and a private volleyball club, was taken into custody last Friday. He faces charges of lewd or lascivious touching and an offense against a student by an authority figure. Jail records confirm Gonzalez was released on Saturday after posting a $50,000 bond.
Though officials have not disclosed the name of the school where Gonzalez worked, Royal Palm Beach High School Principal Shakeica Robinson addressed families directly in a message. Robinson confirmed that Gonzalez is no longer employed by the Palm Beach County School District, emphasizing the district’s commitment to maintaining student safety. She urged anyone with information about Gonzalez to contact school police.
Detectives suspect there may be additional victims and are actively working to uncover further details. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office has encouraged anyone with relevant information to reach out to Detective Darrell Diez or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
This marks the second arrest of a coach from the Palm Beach County School District within the past week on allegations of inappropriate behavior with minors. The incidents are raising alarms among parents and prompting calls for stricter oversight of staff working with students.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities determined to ensure that justice is served and any affected individuals receive the necessary support.
When allegations of sexual abuse by a trusted coach surface, families are often left grappling with difficult questions about accountability and justice. In an interview with Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard, we explore the legal avenues available to victims and their families, including how civil claims can provide a path to healing and hold institutions accountable for negligence.
Darla Medina (Editor): Many families may feel uncertain about their next steps after hearing about situations like this. What legal options are available to those affected?
Michael Haggard (Florida Sexual Abuse Lawyer): When a coach or authority figure is accused of abuse, families have several legal paths they can take. Beyond the criminal investigation, families can also pursue civil claims to hold the individual—and potentially the institution that employed them—accountable for their actions or negligence.
Medina: Could you explain how civil claims differ from the criminal case?
Haggard: Of course. A criminal case focuses on punishing the offender, but a civil claim allows the victim and their family to seek compensation for the harm they've suffered—both emotionally and financially. It also addresses whether the institution failed to protect the victim, such as by ignoring warning signs or not conducting proper background checks.
Medina: What challenges do families typically face in these cases?
Haggard: One of the main challenges is overcoming the stigma and emotional toll of coming forward. These cases can also be complex, especially if the institution denies liability. That’s why having experienced legal representation is key to navigating the process and ensuring that victims’ rights are upheld.
Medina: Are there specific steps you recommend families take right away?
Haggard: Absolutely. Document everything—save any communication, emails, or messages that may be relevant. Report the abuse to law enforcement immediately, and consult with an attorney who specializes in these cases. Acting quickly can strengthen both the criminal and civil cases.
Victims and their families don’t have to face this journey alone. Understanding your legal rights is a powerful first step toward accountability and healing. If you or someone you love has been affected by abuse, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you deserve.
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