Salinas, CA – Julio Cesar Gonzalez Garcia, a 38-year-old former soccer coach from Salinas, has pleaded guilty to 12 felony counts involving eight children aged 13 to 15. The announcement came from Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni on February 21, 2025.
Gonzalez Garcia coached girls’ soccer at North Salinas High School, La Paz Middle School, and the El Camino Fútbol Club. He also faces charges for supplying minors with marijuana products, including vape pens and edibles.
Charges and Potential Sentencing of Accused Soccer Coach
Gonzalez Garcia admitted to three charges of contacting children online to distribute obscene material, one charge of providing marijuana to children over 14, and eight charges of unlawful sexual touching, including forcible lewd acts on children under 14. He faces 30 to 41 years in state prison and must register as a sex offender for life. Sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2025.
Investigation and Victims Allegedly Sexually Abused by a Soccer Coach
The case began on October 27, 2022, when a 15-year-old girl at North Salinas High School reported that her coach, known as “Chicles,” had sent her an explicit photograph via social media. A second victim came forward, alleging forced kissing and inappropriate touching. The investigation uncovered six more victims, including three 13-year-olds and three 14-year-olds, all connected to local soccer programs coached by Gonzalez Garcia.
Allegations of Students Sexually Abused by High School Soccer Coach
Sexual acts reportedly occurred in various locations, including an equipment room and the defendant’s car at local parks. Court documents reveal that Gonzalez Garcia used social media to proposition victims, in one instance offering a spot on the soccer team in exchange for sexual favors.
The alleged criminal activities span from September 2019 to the summer of 2021, highlighting a pattern of behavior over an extended period.
Legal Options for Victims of Coach Sexual Abuse: Attorney Explains Their Rights
Victims of sexual abuse by trusted figures, such as coaches, often face overwhelming emotional and legal challenges. In an effort to provide clarity, California sexual abuse attorney Jason Amala shares vital information about the rights available to survivors and how they can hold both abusers and negligent institutions accountable through civil lawsuits. This conversation aims to empower victims by outlining the steps they can take to seek accountability and justice.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. Amala, what legal recourse do victims have in cases like the Salinas soccer coach incident?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Victims of sexual abuse by coaches have multiple legal options. While criminal charges hold the abuser accountable to the state, victims can also file civil lawsuits against the abuser and potentially other responsible parties.
Banville: Who might these other responsible parties be?
Amala: Schools, sports organizations, or any institutions that employed the coach could be held liable if they failed to protect the children in their care. This could include not conducting proper background checks, ignoring warning signs, or failing to act on complaints.
Banville: How does negligence factor into these cases?
Amala: Negligence is a key element. If an organization had a duty of care and failed to meet that obligation, it can be held accountable. Examples include inadequate supervision, lack of safety protocols, or disregarding prior misconduct reports.
Banville: What evidence is typically used to prove negligence?
Amala: Evidence often includes incident reports, witness testimony, prior complaints about the perpetrator, and any documentation showing a failure to act. Expert witnesses may also be brought in to establish how the organization’s actions—or lack thereof—contributed to the abuse.
Banville: Are there time limits for victims to take legal action?
Amala: California has expanded its laws to give survivors more time to file lawsuits due to the complex nature of childhood sexual abuse cases. However, it’s always best for victims to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure they meet any applicable deadlines.
Banville: What advice would you give to victims considering legal action?
Amala: I encourage victims to speak with an experienced sexual abuse attorney who can guide them through their options. Civil lawsuits not only provide financial compensation but also hold negligent parties accountable, even when criminal charges have already been pursued.
Empowering Survivors: Take the First Step Towards Justice
The path to healing and accountability for survivors of coach-perpetrated sexual abuse can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a trusted coach, remember that support and legal options are available. Our team of compassionate and experienced attorneys is here to listen, guide, and advocate for your rights. We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your legal options and the potential for holding negligent parties accountable. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from seeking the justice you deserve. Contact us today to take the first step towards reclaiming your power and ensuring that those responsible are held to account.
Source
https://www.ksbw.com/article/salinas-soccer-coach-pleads-guilty-children/63958671
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
