Investigation into TPS volunteer coach continues
May 12—A local law firm representing a Start High School student who is said to have been sexually assaulted by a volunteer coach is looking for information from other potential victims.
Andrea Young, an attorney at Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, confirmed that the practice is representing a minor girl. At the time of the alleged assault, the girl was under the age of consent in Ohio — or under the age of 16, Ms. Young said on Wednesday.
On Monday, Toledo Public Schools said the district is investigating claims of inappropriate conduct by a volunteer coach. The coach has not been identified.
"These individuals that are in power, they do have a higher duty. They owe these students, these minors — they owe it to them to protect them and to not take advantage of their innocence," Ms. Young said. "There is a heightened standard for people in power positions in schools."
Many of the specific allegations remain under investigation, including the timeframe of when the coach allegedly contacted the girl. The girl was "targeted, isolated, groomed, sexually assaulted, and is now dealing with a pregnancy," the law firm said in a statement.
"He was in a position of power with the school," Ms. Young said. "We do have a confirmed pregnancy, although we are still working with the family to get more details and that's something that's under investigation."
The law firm will also be looking into the district's handling of the allegations and where the assaults may have occurred.
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"We are working alongside the family to help them with the criminal matters and then eventually the goal is to pursue something civil-based," Ms. Young said.
The law office is looking for other potential victims who may have been approached by the coach. Those with any information are encouraged to call 419-241-1395.
Because of the nature of the allegations, Lucas County Children Services and Toledo police have been contacted or made aware of the situation, school officials said this week.
The volunteer has been prohibited from being at the school or any athletic events while the investigation is ongoing.
All volunteer coaches are required to undergo a background check and provide other credentials before participating in any TPS athletic program, the district said.
First Published May 12, 2021, 10:06am
