Dana Hills, CA – A Southern California high school basketball coach has been arrested following allegations of a sexual relationship with a student. Michael Duran, 44, was taken into custody this week and booked on charges of oral copulation with a minor under the age of 18, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Dana Hills High School Coach Accused of Sexual Relationship With Minor
Investigators reported that Duran engaged in an inappropriate relationship with the victim while working as an assistant basketball coach at Dana Hills High School. The sheriff’s department stated the girl told authorities that Duran groomed her before the two became sexually involved.
Accused Coach’s Connection to Local Club Team
During their inquiry, detectives discovered that Duran also worked with SoCal Fins, a basketball club based in San Juan Capistrano. The sheriff’s department said this connection raises concerns that other young athletes may have been targeted.
Authorities Searching For Additional Victims
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department believes there could be more victims and is urging anyone with information to come forward. Reports can be directed to the department’s Special Victims Detail, which is handling the investigation.
Legal Options for Victims of Coach Sexual Abuse
When trusted adults in positions of authority break the law, the damage can be lasting and far-reaching. To better understand what legal steps are available to survivors and their families, our team spoke with Jason Amala, a California lawyer with extensive experience representing victims of sexual abuse by teachers and coaches. In this conversation, Amala outlines how the legal system can hold both individuals and institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Jason, as an attorney who has represented many survivors, what legal steps can a young person—or their family—take if they’ve been abused by a coach?
Jason Amala, Esq.: In cases like this, the victim has both criminal and civil options. Prosecutors handle the criminal side, but families can also bring civil lawsuits against the individual coach and potentially the institutions that employed him if they failed to protect students. Those cases can provide compensation for counseling, education costs, and the long-term impact of the abuse.
Banville: How important is it for survivors to come forward, even if the abuse happened years ago?
Amala: Very important. California law has extended the time survivors have to file lawsuits, especially in cases involving minors. Even if the abuse happened in the past, survivors may still have the right to take action today. Coming forward can also help prevent future harm by exposing patterns of misconduct.
Support for Survivors and Their Families
If you or someone you love has been harmed by a coach or another trusted adult, you do not have to face this alone. Our legal team is available to listen, answer your questions, and explain your options. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward holding those responsible accountable.
