Southlake, TX – Adrian Joseph Maher, a 26-year-old Roanoke resident, was arrested Wednesday, February 5, 2025, by the Southlake Police Department on charges of sexual assault of a child, indecency with a child, and solicitation of a minor. The arrest follows allegations of abuse during Maher’s tenure as a coach at a local private water polo club.
Local Water Polo Coach Arrest Details
Southlake police took Maher into custody on February 7, 2025, following an investigation into reports of abuse. The private water polo club where Maher worked terminated his employment upon learning of the allegations.
Ongoing Investigation into Child Sexual Assault Allegations
Due to the sensitive nature of the case and the victim’s age, authorities are withholding additional information at this time. The exact number of potential victims remains unknown, and police have not disclosed the timeline of the alleged incidents or the duration of Maher’s employment at the club. The name of the private water polo club has not been released.
Water Polo Coach Maher Arrested Without Bond
Maher is currently held in the Tarrant County jail without bond. The case is ongoing, and further details about legal proceedings are expected to emerge in the coming days.
Police Search for Additional Victims
Southlake police are urging parents whose children may have had contact with Maher to come forward if they suspect any form of abuse. Detective Roberson is handling the case and can be reached at 817-748-8235.
Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Abuse by a Water Polo Coach
Recent allegations against a former water polo coach accused of sexually assaulting a minor, have raised important questions about the legal rights of abuse survivors. In an interview, Texas sexual abuse attorney Anjali Nigam explains how victims can take action through civil lawsuits, hold negligent organizations accountable, and access resources to support their recovery.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Given the recent arrest of the water polo coach accused of child sex crimes, many may wonder what legal rights victims have in cases like this. Can you explain what options are available to survivors under Texas law?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: In Texas, survivors of sexual abuse have several rights and legal options. They can pursue justice through the criminal system, where the state prosecutes the offender, and they can also file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for damages such as emotional distress, medical expenses, and therapy costs. Importantly, survivors have the right to privacy during legal proceedings and access to resources like victim advocates and counseling services.
Banville: What about holding third parties accountable? Could the private water polo club where Maher worked be held liable in a civil lawsuit?
Nigam: Yes, potentially. Under Texas law, third parties such as employers or organizations can be held liable if their negligence contributed to the abuse. For instance, if the club failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored complaints about Maher’s behavior, or inadequately supervised him, they could be sued for negligence. The key is proving that the organization breached its duty of care to protect children from harm.
Banville: How does a victim establish negligence in these cases?
Nigam: To prove negligence, four elements must be demonstrated: duty of care, breach of that duty, causation linking the breach to the abuse, and damages suffered by the victim. Evidence such as prior complaints against the abuser or a lack of proper safety protocols can strengthen a case. Victims should work with experienced attorneys who can gather this evidence and build a compelling argument.
Banville: What about timelines? How does Texas’ statute of limitations affect these cases?
Nigam: For criminal cases involving child sexual assault, there is no statute of limitations in Texas. For civil lawsuits, exceptions may apply depending on specific circumstances, so it’s important for survivors to consult an attorney promptly.
Banville: If parents suspect their child may have been abused by Maher or another coach, what steps should they take?
Nigam: Parents should immediately report their concerns to law enforcement and seek medical or psychological support for their child. They should also consult an attorney to explore civil remedies and ensure their child’s rights are protected throughout the process.
Banville: Thank you for your insights. This information will undoubtedly help victims and their families understand their rights and options moving forward.
Nigam: Thank you for having me. Survivors deserve justice and support as they navigate these challenging circumstances.
Don’t Wait: Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual abuse, understanding your legal options is the initial step in gaining closure and securing accountability. Contact our firm today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us assist you on the path to healing and the justice 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
