Tallahassee Gymnastics Coach Held Without Bond on Felony Sexual Battery Charges
Taniya Colson, a 24-year-old gymnastics coach, appeared in court Tuesday morning to face felony charges of sexual battery on a child under 12. The judge ordered Colson to remain in custody without bond and issued a directive barring her from any contact with the victim or the Trousdell Gymnastics Center, where she had been employed for six years.
Parents Alerted, Coach Fired Following Arrest for Child Sex Crimes
The City of Tallahassee notified parents Monday afternoon of Colson’s arrest and confirmed her termination from the part-time coaching position. Director of Tallahassee Parks and Recreation, Ashely Edwards, reported a surge in calls from concerned parents since the notification was sent. Edwards addressed the community’s concerns, stating, “Parents are understandably concerned and upset, we are too. We have been working diligently to communicate with them and to answer any questions that they may have.”
Details Remain Unreleased as Investigation Continues
Authorities have not yet disclosed where or when the alleged assault occurred. Arrest documents with further information have not been made available on the Leon Clerk of Courts website. City officials have declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing investigation.
Gymnastics Center Emphasizes Safety Protocols
Edwards highlighted that the Trousdell Gymnastics Center follows the USA Gymnastics Safe Sport program and maintains strict safeguards for children in both recreational and competitive programs. “We never allow coaches to be alone in the facility with kids, there must always be two coaches present,” Edwards explained. She also encouraged parents to remain at the facility during all activities and noted ongoing staff training regarding appropriate boundaries, including restrictions on social media and outside interactions with participants.
Edwards reinforced the center’s commitment to safety, stating, “The safety and wellbeing of the participants in our programs is absolutely always the most important thing to us.”
Next Steps for Families After Gymnastics Coach Arrest for Child Sexual Assault
With the recent arrest of a Tallahassee gymnastics coach on felony sexual battery charges involving a child, families are searching for answers and support. Our team sat down with experienced Florida sexual abuse lawyer Mike Haggard to discuss the legal options available to survivors and their families. Haggard outlines the steps victims can take, explains how organizations may be held responsible, and offers guidance for parents navigating this difficult situation.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Following the recent arrest of a gymnastics coach in Tallahassee, many families are asking what legal options are available for children who have experienced abuse by a coach. Can you walk us through the first steps?
Mike Haggard, Esq.: Absolutely. The first step is always to report the abuse to law enforcement so the criminal process can begin. Beyond the criminal case, survivors and their families have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator. These civil actions can seek compensation for the physical and emotional harm caused by the abuse. In many cases, families can also pursue claims against the gymnastics center or any organization that failed to protect the child, especially if there were warning signs or previous complaints that were ignored.
Banville: What should families know about holding organizations accountable?
Haggard: Organizations have a duty to provide a safe environment. If they failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored complaints, or didn’t enforce safety protocols, they can be held liable for negligence. Proving this involves showing the organization had a duty to protect, breached that duty, and that the breach led directly to the harm suffered by the child. Evidence such as emails, reports, or witness statements can be very important in these cases.
Banville: Are there any time limits or challenges families should be aware of?
Haggard: Florida law does have statutes of limitations, but for child sexual abuse cases, these timelines can be extended, especially if the victim was underage at the time. Still, it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect the survivor’s rights. These cases are emotionally challenging, so having a compassionate legal team can make a significant difference for families as they navigate the process.
Banville: What advice would you give to parents considering legal action?
Haggard: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Most law firms, including ours, offer free and confidential consultations. We’re here to answer questions, explain the process, and support families every step of the way. The goal is not only to seek accountability but also to help survivors begin healing and ensure safer environments for all children in the future.
Support Is Within Reach: Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If your family has been affected by abuse from a gymnastics coach, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your rights and exploring your legal options can be the first step toward healing and accountability. Reach out to us for a free, confidential consultation—our team is ready to listen, guide, and stand with you every step of the way. Don’t wait to take action; help and support are just a call or message away.
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
