Auburn, WA – Daniel Ralph Lee, a 64-year-old former wrestling coach at Olympic Middle School, has been charged with multiple felonies following allegations of sexual communication with a 14-year-old student. King County prosecutors filed charges, including two counts of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes, along with first-degree possession and viewing of sexually explicit images of a minor. Lee’s bail was set at $150,000, with prosecutors demanding he surrender weapons and avoid contact with minors.
Sexual Communication Allegations in Court Records
Court documents reveal Lee met the student at a wrestling event and exchanged phone numbers. Initial texts focused on wrestling but escalated to sexual topics, with Lee allegedly requesting photos and initiating physical contact, including hugging and kissing the student’s forehead at school events. Investigators uncovered messages where Lee stated, “And if we do decide to sext or show each other body parts, that’s our business.”
The student reported the communication to a teacher on April 3, prompting the school to alert authorities. Police obtained a warrant, reviewed explicit messages, and arrested Lee during a traffic stop in Maple Valley. After being read his rights, Lee admitted to inappropriate texts and receiving explicit content, telling officers he felt “flattered” by the student’s attention.
School District’s Actions Following Charges of Sexual Misconduct
The Auburn School District confirmed Lee’s termination, noting he coached wrestling for multiple years and held no other roles. Principal Steven Lewis assured families of cooperation with police and urged anyone with information to come forward. Counselors were made available, with Lewis stressing, “Student safety is our number one concern.”
Lee remains jailed at the Maleng Regional Justice Center, with an arraignment scheduled for April 30 in Kent. Prosecutors emphasized Lee’s exploitation of his coaching role to groom the student, calling the breach of trust a central factor in the charges. The case remains under active investigation.
Understanding Victims’ Rights in Coach Abuse Cases
When a trusted adult, like a middle school wrestling coach, abuses their position, families often feel overwhelmed and uncertain about where to turn. In this interview, a seasoned sexual abuse attorney Mike Pfau explains the legal pathways available to victims, emphasizing how to hold perpetrators and institutions accountable while safeguarding children’s rights. From preserving evidence to navigating civil claims, this discussion offers actionable steps for families seeking justice and healing.
Laurence Banville: In cases like this, where a coach faces charges of sexual communication and exploitation of a minor, what immediate legal steps should victims and families consider?
Mike Pfau, Esq.: First, report the abuse to law enforcement. Preserve all evidence—texts, emails, or photos. Civil lawsuits can hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable, even if criminal charges are pending. Washington’s laws allow survivors to seek compensation for trauma, therapy costs, and other damages.
Banville: How does the breach of trust by a figure like a middle school coach impact these cases?
Pfau: Coaches occupy positions of authority, which magnifies the harm. Courts recognize this predatory dynamic, often leading to stricter penalties and stronger civil claims. Institutions like schools may face liability if they failed to supervise staff or respond to warning signs.
Banville: What challenges do survivors face in coming forward?
Pfau: Fear of retaliation, shame, or disbelief. But Washington’s statute of limitations allows minors to file civil claims into adulthood, giving survivors time to process trauma. Confidentiality protections and victim advocates can help them navigate the process safely.
Take Action Now: Secure Justice with Legal Support
If your child has experienced abuse by a coach, you don’t have to navigate this crisis alone. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to explore your legal options and ensure accountability. Protecting your child’s rights and securing justice starts with one call.
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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
