Loxahatchee, FL - The School District of Palm Beach County confirmed Wednesday that an assistant football coach at Seminole Ridge High School has been fired following his arrest on serious offenses involving a student. Ruben P. Tirado was booked into the Palm Beach County Jail on Wednesday and charged with lewd and lascivious battery and authority figure soliciting sexual conduct with a student, according to district and jail records.
District Confirms Termination of Assistant Coach
District officials stated that Tirado’s employment with the School District has been terminated effective immediately and that he is barred from having any contact with students. The district emphasized that student safety remains its highest priority and that any behavior that endangers students will not be tolerated under its policies.
Principal Addresses Families and Staff
In a message to parents and staff, Seminole Ridge High School Principal Bob Hatcher informed families that School District Police arrested assistant football coach Ruben Tirado on Wednesday on charges of lewd and lascivious battery and an authority figure soliciting lewd conduct with a student. Hatcher told families that Tirado is prohibited from any contact with students and that the school will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as the case moves through the court system.
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Information
Because the case remains an active criminal investigation, school officials said they are unable to release further specifics about the allegations at this time. Families or community members with information related to the investigation have been asked to contact the School District Police Department at (561) 434-8700, attention Lt. Wagner.
League Issues Separate Statement
The athletic league associated with the program also issued a statement addressing Tirado’s removal from his coaching role. “We take all matters related to coaching staff very seriously and acted in accordance with our policies and procedures. Our priority is ensuring a safe and positive environment for all participants,” the league said.
Attorney Explains Legal Options for Students Sexually Abused by a High School Coach
When an assistant high school coach is accused of sexually abusing a student, families often feel overwhelmed, frightened, and unsure of what steps to take next. In this interview, experienced Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard discusses the paths survivors and their families may have under state and federal law. Their conversation explores how criminal investigations intersect with civil claims, which institutions can be held accountable, and how victims can seek compensation and protection while maintaining as much privacy and control as possible during an incredibly difficult time.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a family learns that an assistant coach may have abused their child, what are the first legal steps they should be thinking about?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: The priority is the student’s safety and well-being. That usually means reporting the allegations to law enforcement or child protective authorities, making sure the child gets medical and counseling support, and then speaking with a lawyer who can explain how the criminal case differs from a potential civil claim.
Banville: Many parents are unsure whether they can take action beyond the criminal charges. What legal options might be available to them?
Haggard: In addition to the criminal case against the coach, survivors may be able to file a civil lawsuit for damages. That can include claims against the individual coach and, in some situations, against the school district or athletic organization if there is evidence of negligent hiring, supervision, or failure to respond to warning signs.
Banville: So in cases involving a school or athletic program, what types of failures are you often looking for?
Haggard: We examine whether proper background checks were done, whether prior complaints or red flags were ignored, and whether there were adequate policies and supervision in place. If those systems broke down and allowed the abuse to happen, the institution can sometimes be held financially responsible for the harm.
Banville: Another concern families raise is privacy, especially when a minor is involved. How is that typically handled in these cases?
Haggard: Courts often allow survivors to proceed under initials or a pseudonym, particularly when they were minors at the time of the abuse. An attorney can request protective orders that limit public disclosure of the survivor’s identity and sensitive details, so families can seek accountability while maintaining as much confidentiality as possible.
Banville: For families who are unsure whether to move forward, what would you say about contacting a lawyer?
Haggard: Reaching out for a confidential consultation is simply a chance to understand their rights and the time limits that may apply. It doesn’t obligate them to file a lawsuit, but it gives them information so they can make informed decisions about what is best for their child’s recovery and future.
Protecting Your Family’s Rights Starts With One Call
If you or someone you love was sexually abused by an assistant coach, you do not have to navigate the next steps alone. Our legal team offers free, confidential consultations to help families understand their options, from potential civil claims to holding schools and related organizations accountable. Contact us today to speak with an attorney who can review your situation, explain possible paths forward, and help you decide what is best for your child’s safety and future.
