A Walton High School football and weightlifting coach has been arrested after an investigation by the Walton County Sheriff’s Office uncovered evidence of an inappropriate relationship with a student.
Coach Accused of Inappropriate Relationship with Student
Zachary Mason, 24, of Crestview, surrendered to deputies at the Walton County Jail after a warrant was issued for his arrest Friday afternoon. Mason, who served as both a football and weightlifting coach, now faces a second-degree felony.
Tip Through Fortify Florida App Sparks Inquiry
The investigation began Tuesday when a tip was submitted through the Fortify Florida app, alleging Mason had been involved in a relationship with a student. The Walton County School District placed him on immediate suspension as the inquiry unfolded.
Messages and Admission Lead to Arrest
Detectives discovered that Mason and the student began communicating through Snapchat in December 2025, exchanging messages that became romantic and sexual in nature. During interviews, Mason admitted he met the student in Walton County, drove them to his home in Crestview, and engaged in sexual activity.
Formal Charges and Ongoing Case
Mason is charged with engaging in a romantic relationship with a student while in a position of authority and unlawful use of a two-way communication device. He remains in custody at the Walton County Jail awaiting his first court appearance.
Florida Attorney Outlines Legal Options for Families After Child Is Sexually Abused by Coach
Families grappling with allegations that a trusted coach has sexually abused a child often face fear, confusion, and uncertainty about what to do next. In this interview, Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard about the legal paths available to survivors and their families, including how criminal and civil cases work, what rights victims have under state law, and the role these cases can play in accountability and healing.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a student is sexually abused by a coach, what are the first legal steps that the family should consider?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: The first step is to ensure the student’s immediate safety, then report the abuse to law enforcement and school officials so there is a formal record. Families should also contact a lawyer as early as possible so evidence is preserved and deadlines under Florida law are not missed.
Banville: Many families feel intimidated by the idea of coming forward. What would you say to them?
Haggard: That reaction is completely understandable, but they are not alone. A civil case can help uncover what the school knew about the coach, hold every responsible party accountable, and provide financial support for counseling and long-term care.
Banville: Can survivors pursue both criminal and civil actions in these coach abuse cases?
Haggard: Yes. The criminal case focuses on punishing the coach, while the civil case is about helping the survivor rebuild by seeking compensation from the coach, the school district, and any organization that failed to protect the child. These cases often run on separate tracks but can support each other through shared evidence.
Banville: What types of damages are typically available in a civil suit against a coach and a school?
Haggard: Survivors can pursue damages for therapy and medical treatment, lost educational opportunities, and the emotional pain they’ve endured. In some cases, we also seek punitive damages to send a message that ignoring warning signs or poor hiring and supervision practices will not be tolerated.
Banville: If a family is unsure whether what happened “qualifies” as abuse, should they still reach out?
Haggard: Absolutely. Any sexual contact between a coach and a student is a serious violation of trust and can have lifelong effects. A conversation with an attorney is confidential, and it can help families understand their rights and whether they have a case—often at no cost for that initial consultation.
Free Legal Help for Families Harmed by a Coach
Families do not have to navigate coach sexual abuse cases alone. If you or your child were harmed by a coach, our legal team is ready to review what happened, explain your options, and discuss potential claims against all responsible parties. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation so you can understand your rights and take the next step with experienced advocates by your side.
