Gibson City, IL - A former Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley (GCMS) teacher and coach has been sentenced to prison following a plea deal in a sexual abuse case involving a student.
Arrest and Charges
Robert Dinkins appeared before a Ford County judge on Monday for the first time since his June 5, 2025 arrest in Macon, Georgia. His arrest followed an extensive investigation by the Gibson City Police Department that began in March 2025, after officers met with the parents of a GCMS student who reported that their child had been receiving disturbing text messages from Dinkins.
At the time, Dinkins held multiple positions within the GCMS school district, including 8th grade teacher, 8th grade basketball coach, middle school track coach, head high school varsity soccer coach, and high school basketball coach.
On June 4, 2025, an arrest warrant was issued from Ford County charging Dinkins with six counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
Investigation Findings
Gibson City Police executed a search warrant at Dinkins’ home, where they seized his phone and other electronic devices. A forensic analysis of the data, combined with several witness interviews, led investigators to determine that Dinkins had engaged in sexual activities with a high-school-aged student.
Plea and Sentencing
In court on Wednesday, Feb. 18, Dinkins pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated criminal sexual abuse involving a victim under 18. The remaining five counts were dismissed as part of a negotiated plea agreement.
Judge’s sentencing records show Dinkins received a four-year prison term for the offense.
Legal Options for Families After Teacher or Coach Sexual Abuse
When allegations of sexual abuse involve a trusted teacher or coach, families are often left uncertain about the next steps. To help parents understand their rights and the legal options available in Illinois, we spoke with experienced sexual abuse lawyer Erv Nevitt. In this discussion, Nevitt explains how victims and their families can take action, from reporting abuse to pursuing civil claims that hold institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Cases like this raise serious questions for parents. What can families do once they suspect their child may have been victimized by someone in a position of authority?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: The first step is always to ensure the child’s safety and report the matter to law enforcement right away. In parallel, families should reach out to an attorney experienced in sexual abuse cases. Legal action can help protect the victim’s rights and hold both the individual and the institution accountable.
Banville: What does legal accountability typically involve in Illinois?
Nevitt: Civil claims can be filed against not just the perpetrator, but also the school district or organization if there’s evidence they failed to respond appropriately. Laws in Illinois allow survivors to pursue damages for the emotional and psychological harm caused, even years later, thanks to extended statutes of limitation for child sex abuse cases.
Banville: So, even after a criminal case wraps up, families may still seek justice through civil court?
Nevitt: That’s right. A criminal conviction punishes the offender, but civil action focuses on recovery for the survivor—covering therapy, long-term care, and compensation for trauma. Both processes can work together to bring closure and accountability.
Get Legal Support and Protect Your Family’s Rights
If you or someone you love has been harmed by a teacher, coach, or trusted adult, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our legal team understands the pain and confusion these cases bring, and we’re here to help you take the next step. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options and learn how we can help your family move forward with strength and clarity.
