Lithia Springs, GA – A former Douglas County high school teacher and track coach pled guilty Tuesday to sexually assaulting a student, according to court records. The plea comes more than a year after his May 2024 arrest.
High School Track Coach Arrested for Child Sexual Assault
Kerry Hood, 47, turned himself in after an investigation established probable cause for his arrest. He was denied bond during his first court appearance, with the judge labeling him a danger to the public and warning that release could give him continued access to minors.
During the proceeding, Hood told the judge he had been a teacher for seven years and a teacher’s assistant for a decade. Prosecutors confirmed that the abuse took place both during school hours on campus at Lithia Springs High School—where Hood was the victim’s track and field coach—and at other locations.
Accused Coach’s Background
Hood was employed as a special education teacher in the DeKalb County School District from 2005 to 2013 before joining the Douglas County system. He was working at Lithia Springs High School when the reported abuse began between December 2023 and May 2024.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation into Student Sexual Assault
Former colleagues expressed disbelief over the outcome, while at least one past student said the guilty plea was not unexpected, citing Hood’s close ties to athletes on the team. Ryan Samples, a former student, said, “Everybody needs to know if there are more victims or whatnot, especially if nobody has come forward because this could have been going on for a really long time. There’s just an unknowing amount of people that could have experienced this, and they need justice for them as well.”
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with additional information to come forward, underscoring the possibility of other victims connected to the case.
Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Abuse by Trusted Coach
When a trusted coach abuses their authority, the damage extends far beyond the playing field. To help explain the legal steps available for victims in Georgia, we spoke with veteran sexual abuse lawyer John Bey, who outlined how survivors can hold both the abuser and responsible institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a coach is convicted of sexually assaulting a student, what options do victims have beyond the criminal case?
John Bey, Esq.: The criminal conviction holds the abuser accountable under the law, but victims also have the right to file a civil lawsuit. This allows them to seek compensation for trauma, therapy costs, and other damages they’ve endured.
Banville: Can schools or districts be held responsible in these types of cases?
Bey: Yes. If the school system failed to act on warning signs, ignored reports, or didn’t put proper safeguards in place, they can share liability. Institutions have a responsibility to protect students in their care.
Banville: Why is acting quickly so important for victims and their families?
Bey: Evidence and witness testimony are strongest when gathered early. Also, Georgia has specific statutes of limitations that determine how long someone has to file a civil case. Consulting an attorney as soon as possible helps ensure victims keep all their legal options open.
Banville: If more victims come forward in this case, how might that affect legal action?
Bey: Each victim’s case can stand on its own, but multiple accounts often strengthen the argument against both the abuser and the institution. It shows a pattern of misconduct and raises further questions about supervision and accountability.
Protecting Student Rights Starts Today
Victims of sexual abuse should never face their battles alone. If you or a loved one were harmed by a coach, teacher, or other authority figure, our legal team is here to stand by your side. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and learn how we can help you take the next step forward.
