Parkersburg, WV - Former Parkersburg swim coach David Andrew Adams has entered a guilty plea in his sexual abuse case during a hearing Wednesday morning before Judge Wharton.
Authorities report that between October 2018 and July 2022, Adams engaged in repeated acts of sexual assault and abuse involving three girls under the age of 12. The incidents occurred at the Parkersburg YMCA, where Adams worked as a swim coach.
Details of the Case
Adams was arrested in July 2023 and initially faced 20 counts related to sexual assault and abuse. The charges included two counts of sexual assault in the first degree, nine counts of sexual abuse by a person in a position of trust, and nine counts of sexual abuse in the first degree.
Court Proceedings
During Wednesday’s plea hearing, Adams appeared before Judge Wharton to formally enter his guilty plea. The courtroom remained under close attention from both legal representatives and community observers as the proceedings began.
Legal Options for Victims After Swim Coach Sexual Abuse
As former Parkersburg swim coach David Andrew Adams admits guilt to multiple counts of sexual abuse involving minors, attention turns to what victims and their families can do next. West Virginia sexual abuse lawyer Jesse Forbes discusses the legal options available to those harmed by individuals in positions of trust and how civil action can help survivors rebuild their lives.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: For families affected by abuse cases like this, what legal recourse do they have beyond the criminal court?
Jesse Forbes, Esq.: Victims and their families may also pursue civil claims against both the perpetrator and any institution that failed to provide proper supervision or safety measures. In a case like this, the YMCA could face scrutiny if there’s evidence suggesting negligence or lack of oversight.
Banville: What kinds of damages can survivors seek through civil action?
Forbes: They can pursue compensation for emotional trauma, therapy costs, and long-term recovery expenses. The civil process gives survivors a chance to hold organizations accountable and to secure resources that support healing beyond the criminal sentence.
Standing With Survivors
Victims of sexual abuse deserve support, justice, and the chance to heal. If you or a loved one experienced abuse by a swim coach or any trusted authority figure, our legal team is here to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to learn your rights and take the next step toward accountability and recovery.
Source
https://www.wtap.com/2025/12/10/former-parkersburg-swim-coach-enters-plea-hearing/
