Peoria, IL — Daniel Ruffin, the boys’ varsity basketball coach at Peoria High School, has been released from jail two days after his arrest for allegedly engaging in an inappropriate conversation with a 16-year-old girl.
Ruffin, 41, faces two felony charges—indecent solicitation of a child and grooming—stemming from a series of text messages prosecutors say were sent to the student. The charges describe attempts to “seduce, solicit, lure, and entice” a minor into unlawful sexual activity.
Court Appearance and Release Conditions
Ruffin appeared via video link from the Peoria County Jail on Wednesday, wearing an orange inmate jumpsuit and standing before a lectern. Prosecutors did not ask that he remain in custody but requested several restrictions as part of his pretrial release.
Judge-imposed conditions include no contact with the alleged victim, staying away from a redacted address, submitting his phone for monitoring by pretrial officers, and wearing a GPS ankle monitor. Ruffin’s next court date is scheduled for March 12.
School District Responses to Sexual Misconduct by Coach
Peoria Public Schools confirmed Ruffin has been placed on administrative leave without pay pending the outcome of the investigation. District spokeswoman Marjorie Kauth announced that Ryan McElmurry will take over as interim head basketball coach.
Ruffin, who has served as Peoria High’s varsity coach since 2020, does not have other duties within the district. His coaching position is part-time and paid by stipend.
Police Investigation Details of Indecent Solicitation of Student
Police were called to Peoria High around 9:23 a.m. Monday following a report of improper communication between Ruffin and a student. According to authorities, officers met with both individuals and reviewed the girl’s phone, where they allegedly found messages of a sexual nature. Ruffin was taken into custody later that night and booked into the Peoria County Jail.
Families Are Not Powerless: A Legal Q&A on Coach Sexual Abuse Cases
When allegations surface that a coach has sexually abused or groomed a young athlete, families often feel overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what can be done. In this interview, experienced sexual abuse lawyer Erv Nevitt sits down to explain the legal options available to victims and their relatives, from reporting the abuse to law enforcement to filing civil claims against coaches, schools, and youth sports organizations that may have failed to protect children.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a student is sexually abused or groomed by a high school coach, what are the first legal steps that family should consider?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: The family should document everything and contact law enforcement as soon as they can. They should also speak with a civil attorney quickly so evidence can be preserved and any deadlines to file a lawsuit are not missed.
Banville: Many families feel intimidated by a school district or athletic program. Who can be held legally responsible in these cases?
Nevitt: The coach can face criminal charges and be sued in civil court, but the school district, athletic department, or youth organization may also be liable. If they ignored complaints, failed to supervise, or hired someone with red flags in their background, they can be held accountable for allowing the abuse to happen.
Banville: Some survivors worry about coming forward because they think it is too late. Do they still have options?
Nevitt: They may. Illinois has specific statutes of limitation that depend on the survivor’s age and when they discovered the harm, and some claims can still be brought even years later. A lawyer familiar with sexual abuse cases can review the timeline and explain which options remain open.
Banville: Beyond compensation, what can a civil case achieve for a survivor and their family?
Nevitt: A civil case can require schools or organizations to change policies, improve background checks, and strengthen reporting procedures. It also gives survivors a measure of control, allowing them to demand answers, hold institutions responsible, and secure resources for therapy and long-term recovery.
Free Legal Help for Families After Coach Abuse
Families dealing with suspected or confirmed sexual abuse by a coach do not have to navigate this alone. Our legal team reviews these cases confidentially, explains your options, and helps you understand who can be held responsible—from the individual coach to the school or organization that may have failed to protect your child. If you or a loved one has been harmed, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn how we can help you move forward and protect other children from similar abuse.
Source
https://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-news/ruffin-charged-inappropriate-texts/
