Snoqualmie, WA – A Snoqualmie youth soccer coach faces serious allegations of inappropriate behavior with a teenage girl. Joshua Lewis, 28, was taken into custody by Snoqualmie Police on Thursday evening at Jeanne Hansen Park. The arrest stems from charges of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes.
Sexual Misconduct Allegations Reported Against Youth Soccer Coach
The case came to light when the mother of a 15-year-old girl contacted authorities about inappropriate Snapchat messages her daughter had received from a coach at Cascade FC, the local youth soccer club. While Lewis was not the girl’s direct coach, he worked with other teams in the program.
Investigation Reveals Prior Concerns of Sexual Misconduct with Children
Court documents reveal a concerning pattern of behavior. During a tournament in San Diego in August, Lewis allegedly engaged in questionable conduct with team members in the ocean, prompting parental intervention. Later that month, he reportedly sent sexually explicit messages and an inappropriate image to the 15-year-old girl via Snapchat.
Additional Victim Comes Forward
As the investigation unfolded, another parent came forward with allegations that Lewis had inappropriately touched their daughter’s breast in a pool incident years earlier. This information contributed to the police’s decision to make an arrest.
Legal Proceedings and Cascade FC SoccerClub Response
Lewis appeared before a judge on Friday and is currently held on $100,000 bail in King County Jail. Cascade FC has placed the coach on administrative leave pending further investigation. The club emphasized its annual background check requirements and mandatory SafeSport training for all coaches.
Snoqualmie police believe there may be additional victims who have not yet spoken out. They urge anyone with information or concerns about inappropriate contact with a Cascade FC coach to contact the Snoqualmie Police Department.
Legal Expert Discusses Victim Rights in Youth Soccer Coach Abuse Case
The recent arrest of a Snoqualmie youth soccer coach on charges of inappropriate communication with a minor has raised serious questions about child safety in sports programs. As the community grapples with the implications of this case, many are left wondering about the legal rights of victims and the potential liability of organizations entrusted with protecting young athletes. To address these concerns, we spoke with Mike Pfau, a seasoned Washington attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. In this interview, Pfau offers valuable information on the legal options available to victims and their families, as well as insights into how negligent parties can be held accountable. His expert perspective sheds light on the complex legal landscape surrounding such cases and underscores the importance of seeking proper legal guidance and support.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal options do victims and their families have in cases where a youth coach sexually abuses a child?
Mike Pfau, Esq.: Victims of child sexual abuse by youth sports coaches have several avenues for legal recourse. They can pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator, but they may also have grounds for civil lawsuits against the coach, the soccer club, and potentially other responsible parties.
Banville: How might the soccer club be held accountable?
Pfau: Organizations that employ youth coaches have a duty to protect the children in their care. If they fail to properly screen coaches, ignore warning signs, or don’t implement adequate safeguards, they could be found negligent, which could make them liable for damages in a civil case.
Banville: What advice would you give to families affected by this situation?
Pfau: I’d urge them to contact law enforcement if they haven’t already, and to consider speaking with an attorney experienced in child sexual abuse cases. These situations are complex, and victims often have more legal rights than they realize. It’s also important to seek appropriate counseling and support services.
Banville: Thank you for your insights.
Reach Out for Support and Legal Guidance
If you or someone you know has been affected by similar circumstances, it’s important to seek help. Victims of child sexual abuse have legal rights and options available to them. Our team is here to provide compassionate support and expert legal advice tailored to your situation. We encourage you to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore the best path forward. You don’t have to face this alone—reach out today for the assistance you deserve.
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
