Monmouth County, NJ – A Monmouth County Grand Jury has indicted Sasha C. Raught, a 56-year-old former youth gymnastics coach from Manchester Township, on four counts related to sexual offenses against three student-athletes. The charges include one count of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault and three counts of second-degree Sexual Assault.
Investigation Reveals Alleged Sexual Abuse by Youth Coach
The Special Victims Bureau of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office conducted an investigation that uncovered Raught’s alleged sexual relationships with three former athletes when they were teenagers. Two of these incidents reportedly occurred in the early to mid-1990s while Raught was employed at Shrewsbury Gymnastics School. The third instance allegedly took place in 2008 when Raught worked at Jonas Gymnastics Academy located in Marlboro.
NJ Youth Gymnastics Coach Arrest for Child Sex Abuse
In May 2023, Raught was arrested at his home by members of the Prosecutor’s Office and local police departments. He was subsequently held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution.
Ongoing Investigation After 3 Former Athletes Accuse Coach of Sexual Abuse
Authorities are still seeking information about Raught’s activities. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office has urged anyone with relevant information to contact Detective Joseph Pahopin at their toll-free number.
Legal Pathways for Gymnastics Abuse Survivors
The recent indictment of former youth gymnastics coach Sasha C. Raught on sexual assault charges has brought renewed attention to the issue of abuse in sports. As the legal proceedings unfold, many are left wondering about the rights and options available to survivors of such abuse. To address these questions, we spoke with Stewart Ryan, an experienced New Jersey sexual abuse lawyer. In this interview, Ryan offers valuable information on the legal avenues open to victims, the potential for holding negligent institutions accountable, and the importance of understanding survivors’ rights throughout the legal process. His insights provide a roadmap for those affected by abuse in gymnastics and other youth sports, emphasizing the support and legal protections available to survivors seeking to come forward.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. Ryan, what legal options do victims of sexual abuse by youth gymnastic coaches have?
Stewart Ryan, Esq.: Victims have several avenues for recourse. They can pursue criminal charges, as we’re seeing in this case. Additionally, they may file civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and potentially against the institutions that employed them.
Banville: How can negligent parties be held accountable?
Ryan: Institutions like gymnastics academies have a duty to protect the minors in their care. If they failed to properly screen employees, ignored warning signs, or didn’t respond appropriately to allegations, they could be held liable. This might include compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, and pain and suffering.
Banville: What rights do sexual assault survivors have during legal proceedings?
Ryan: Survivors have significant rights throughout the process. These include the right to be treated with dignity and respect, to be protected from the accused, to be notified about court proceedings, and to be heard at certain stages of the case. They also have the right to seek financial assistance for costs related to the assault.
Banville: Any advice for survivors considering coming forward?
Ryan: I’d encourage survivors to reach out to victim advocacy organizations or speak with an experienced attorney. These professionals can guide them through their options and help protect their rights. It’s also important to remember that there are often extended statutes of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases, so it may not be too late to seek justice.
Reach Out for Support and Guidance
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse in gymnastics or any other youth sports, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There are resources and legal avenues available to help you navigate this challenging situation. We encourage victims and their families to contact us for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate support and expert legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected. Don’t hesitate to reach out; your voice matters and justice is within reach.
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
