Greenville County, SC — A judge has denied bond for 74-year-old Jimmy Ronald Anderson, a longtime taekwondo instructor and owner at S O C Tae-Kwon-do, Greer Tae-Kwon-Do studio, now facing serious child sexual abuse allegations dating from both past and recent claims.
Anderson appeared in court last week, charged with four counts of lewd acts and one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charges come amid accusations from former students who say they were assaulted by Anderson during taekwondo lessons.
Judge Blocks Release of Jimmy Ronald Anderson Amid New Testimonies
During Thursday’s hearing, three individuals who said they were victimized by Anderson addressed the court. One woman, a former student, said she decided to speak up again after unexpectedly seeing Anderson at a local restaurant. She urged the judge to keep him in custody, referencing a report she filed with Greer Police in 2020.
According to Anderson’s lawyer, Ryan Beasley, his client voluntarily approached police to answer questions after the initial allegations were made. But the court noted that Anderson failed to attend a scheduled polygraph. The state criticized the initial handling of the case, saying police had allowed it to stall.
The Greer Police Department responded by stating the case, reported in January 2020, was dropped more than a year later due to what they described as limited cooperation from the accuser. In a statement, police detailed that after initial interviews, multiple follow-up attempts went unanswered.
Survivors Describe Years of Abuse by Taekwondo Instructor
The second individual who testified said he was abused by Anderson when he was a child and asked the court for a high surety bond to ensure Anderson wouldn’t be released. The third speaker offered graphic details, alleging the abuse began when she was as young as four and lasted into her mid-teens. She stated she was also a student of Anderson and that he threatened her to remain silent over the years.
Past Offense Raises Alarming Questions
Anderson has been on the sex offender registry since a 2004 charge for a lewd act with a child. In court, state prosecutors questioned how he was again allowed unsupervised access to minors through his instruction of taekwondo.
Unresolved questions remain about whether the third person to testify is the same individual from the 2004 case, something both defense and state attorneys plan to determine.
More Legal Action Expected
Though bond has been denied at this time, the judge ruled that Anderson may seek a follow-up hearing within 60 days. That window will give both sides a chance to investigate the newest claims and clarify facts surrounding previous charges.
Anderson remains in custody as the case develops.
South Carolina Attorney Explains Options After Taekwondo Instructor Abuse Allegations
Revelations about sexual abuse by a taekwondo instructor have left many wondering where survivors can turn for help. We spoke with James Moore, a South Carolina attorney experienced in handling childhood sexual abuse cases, to clarify the legal avenues available for victims. Moore addresses both criminal and civil paths survivors can consider, highlighting the steps they can take even if years have passed since the abuse occurred.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: With new victims coming forward in this case, what are some steps they can take if they want to come forward now?
James Moore, Esq.: Even if the abuse happened years ago, South Carolina law allows survivors of child sexual abuse to bring civil claims for damages under certain circumstances. The statute of limitations can be more flexible when the trauma was discovered or fully understood later in life. So, a survivor who only recently came to terms with what happened—or who was afraid to speak up earlier—may still have time to file a lawsuit.
Banville: What challenges do survivors often face when cases involve people in positions of trust, like instructors?
Moore: Cases involving coaches or instructors are often complex because of the power dynamics. Victims may feel responsible or fear they won’t be believed. That’s why it’s important for attorneys handling these cases to move carefully, respectfully, and with a trauma-informed approach. Additionally, there may be liability for organizations or schools that ignored warning signs or failed to run proper background checks.
Banville: Can survivors seek justice even if the accused has already been convicted or registered as a sex offender, like in Anderson’s case?
Moore: Yes. A prior conviction or registry status doesn’t prevent civil action. In fact, it may help strengthen the argument that the abuse occurred and that institutions had a duty to prevent further harm. Survivors may be able to recover compensation for pain, suffering, and other damages, even if the criminal side of the case is closed.
Banville: What message do you have for someone who stayed silent for years and is unsure whether to speak up now?
Moore: They’re not alone. Many survivors wait years before speaking. What’s most important is that they know it’s still possible to take action—whether through the criminal courts or civil system—and get support every step of the way.
Take the First Step Toward Justice Today
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse, it’s important to know you don’t have to face this alone. Our team is here to provide compassionate support and expert guidance through every stage of your case. Contact us now for a free consultation to explore your legal options and begin the process of holding those responsible accountable. Your voice matters, and help is just a call away.
Source
https://www.wyff4.com/article/sc-tae-kwon-do-instructor-child-sexual-abuse-allegations/65107818
