Perry County, PA – A former youth baseball coach has been charged with the repeated rape of an 8-year-old girl, just one day after being accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy. The disturbing incidents came to light on March 21, 2024, following the arrest of Jeromy Paul Baum, a 46-year-old resident of Halifax in Dauphin County, according to law enforcement officials.
Former Shermans Dale Blue Jays Youth Baseball Coach Arrested For Child Sex Abuse
The investigation was initiated after the 15-year-old victim reported meeting Baum in person, subsequent to their communication on the popular social networking app Grindr. Believing he was conversing with a 16-year-old, the teen agreed to a meeting, during which Baum arrived at the boy’s home and engaged in sexual acts, despite being aware of the victim’s underage status.
Online Communication Details Disturbing Evidence of Grooming and Child Sexual Assault
Pennsylvania State Police revealed that the teenager had contacted Baum via Snapchat, arranging another meeting at his residence. Law enforcement officers strategically positioned themselves inside the house, resulting in Baum’s arrest upon arrival. Court records indicate that Baum admitted to communicating with the boy on both Snapchat and Grindr, receiving explicit images from the victim, and engaging in sexual activities with the minor. The assault against the teen boy occurred on March 19 in Perry County, according to the court documents. Consequently, Baum was apprehended outside the victim’s home on March 20, 2024.
8 Year Old Victim Accuses Ex-Youth Baseball Coach of Raping Her
The apprehension prompted the mother of a child who had previously been under Baum’s care in 2014 to broach the subject of sexual violence. It was during this conversation that the child, now eight years old, tearfully disclosed that Baum had raped her at her Perry County home when she was between the ages of eight and nine. The assaults persisted for several months until her mother’s work schedule changed, rendering Baum unable to carry out his heinous acts, as detailed in the filed charging documents.
According to police reports, the young girl revealed that Baum had threatened to harm her and explicitly implored her to remain silent, asserting that he would face consequences if she spoke out. Frightened by the coach’s threats, she kept the abuse a secret, living in fear of him.
Perry County League Youth Coach Charged With Child Rape
Baum is now facing charges of rape of a child and related offenses in connection to the assaults on the 8-year-old girl. Earlier, on March 20, he was charged with deviate sexual intercourse, corruption of minors, and unlawful contact with a minor, stemming from the assault against the 15-year-old boy. Currently, Baum remains in custody with a bail set at $1.5 million.
Officials Fear Possibility of Additional Victims Sexually Abused By Ex-Coach Baum
In light of these distressing events, authorities are concerned that there may be other victims who have suffered similar abuse at the hands of Baum. The Pennsylvania State Police urge anyone with information to contact the Newport barracks at 717-567-3110.
The accused, Baum, had coached the Shermans Dale Blue Jays approximately 10 to 15 years ago within the West Perry Youth Baseball Association. Recently, he relocated to Dauphin County, raising concerns about his potential interactions with other children in the area.
This distressing case highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to protect children from potential predators. Law enforcement agencies are working diligently to ensure justice for the victims and to prevent further harm.
Child Sexual Attorney Discusses Legal Options for Victims of Youth Coach Abuse
In light of the disturbing charges against former youth baseball coach Jeromy Paul Baum, our team sat down with Brian Kent, Esq., an experienced Pennsylvania child sexual abuse lawyer, to discuss the legal rights and options available to the victims of sexual abuse. Kent provides valuable information regarding the civil litigation process and the potential avenues for the victims to seek justice and compensation for the immense harm they have suffered.
Laurence Banville, Esq. (LB): Brian, thank you for joining us today to discuss this deeply troubling case. Can you go into deeper detail regarding the legal rights available for families of children who have suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a youth coach?
Brian Kent, Esq. (BK): Absolutely, Laurence. It’s critical to recognize that child victims of sexual abuse have legal rights that must be protected. In Pennsylvania, victims may have the option to pursue civil litigation against their abusers and any other responsible parties, seeking compensation for the harm they have endured.
LB: That’s an important avenue for victims to consider. Could you explain what factors are taken into account when determining liability in these cases?
BK: Certainly. Liability can extend not only to the abuser but also to organizations or individuals who failed to adequately protect the child from harm. In a case of a youth sports coach, for example, the organization or school they are part of may be held responsible if they were aware of the coach’s predatory behavior or failed to implement necessary safeguards.
LB: I see. What legal options are available to victims seeking justice for the abuse they have suffered?
BK: Victims and their families may file civil lawsuits to pursue justice and hold the abuser accountable. These lawsuits can seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Additionally, pursuing legal action can help prevent further abuse by exposing the perpetrators and prompting necessary changes in policies and procedures.
LB: Are there any specific challenges that arise in these cases?
BK: Absolutely. These cases can be highly complex and emotionally challenging. Often, victims may feel hesitant or scared to come forward due to fear, shame, or manipulation by the abuser. It’s essential to have a skilled attorney who specializes in child sexual abuse cases to guide victims through the legal process with sensitivity and expertise.
LB: Thank you, Brian, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. Your commitment to seeking justice for these vulnerable victims is truly commendable.
BK: Thank you, Laurence. It’s my duty and privilege to stand up for the rights of child sexual abuse victims and help them navigate the legal system while providing them with the support and compassion they deserve.
Seeking Justice and Support for Survivors of Child Sex Abuse
For the victims and their families in this heartbreaking case, the road to recovery and justice may seem daunting. However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. If you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual abuse by a youth coach or other authority figure, we encourage you to reach out to our team for a free, confidential consultation. Our team of experienced sexual assault attorneys is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized support and pursuing the maximum possible compensation to help you rebuild your life. Don’t hesitate to take the first step toward healing and justice. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and options.
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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
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