CLARENDON, AR — A Clarendon High School football coach is facing serious criminal charges following an Arkansas State Police investigation into allegations of sexual assault involving a minor.
Formal Charges Filed After Arrest of High School Football Coach
On August 11, 2025, officials confirmed that 27-year-old Caleb Hunter Gannon, the school’s head football coach, was formally charged with rape. He also faces a separate charge of engaging children in sexually explicit conduct for use in a visual or print medium.
Investigation into Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minor by Coach
The investigation began after the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office asked the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division on July 30 to review the allegations. On August 10, state troopers stopped Gannon in West Memphis during a traffic stop and placed him under arrest.
The following day, Gannon appeared before a judge and was formally charged. His bond was set at $3 million, and he is currently held at the Prairie County Detention Center.
School District Responses to Arrest of Coach
When asked about Gannon’s employment status, the Clarendon School District said it was a personnel issue and declined to provide further comment, citing the ongoing case.
Arkansas Lawyer Explains Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Abuse by Coaches
Following the arrest of Clarendon High School coach Caleb Hunter Gannon, questions have emerged about what legal remedies are available for victims when misconduct involves a trusted authority figure. Arkansas sexual abuse lawyer Joshua Gillespie explained how both criminal and civil processes can provide paths for victims and their families to seek accountability.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: From your experience in Arkansas, what are some steps victims or their families can take after a coach is accused in a case like this?
Joshua Gillespie, Esq.: Victims have both criminal and civil avenues. Criminal proceedings, like the charges we’re seeing here, are handled by the state. Separately, victims can bring a civil lawsuit for damages against the individual and potentially the institution if there’s evidence of negligence in supervision or hiring.
Banville: How difficult is it for young victims to come forward in these situations?
Gillespie: It can be very difficult, because the coach often holds a position of trust and authority. That’s why Arkansas law gives victims a pathway to seek justice without being retraumatized during court proceedings, including protections for minors when testifying.
Banville: Are there statutes of limitations that apply in Arkansas for these kinds of claims?
Gillespie: Yes, but the rules have expanded. In many cases involving child sexual abuse, the timeframes to file a civil case are longer, recognizing that it often takes years for victims to come forward.
Banville: For families dealing with something like this, what would you tell them?
Gillespie: The most important step is to ensure the victim’s safety and well-being first. Legal options are there, but having supportive professionals—counselors, advocates, and attorneys—around the family can make an enormous difference as the process unfolds.
Support and Legal Guidance Available
For victims of sexual abuse and their families, understanding the legal process can feel overwhelming. No one should face it alone. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a coach or authority figure, our legal team is here to provide guidance and support. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
