West Port High School Coach Arrested for Sexual Misconduct with 16-Year-Old Student

Ocala, FL – The Ocala Police Department has arrested James Edward Ford III, a 43-year-old assistant football coach at West Port High School, on multiple felony charges related to unlawful sexual activity with a minor.

Football Coach Arrested for Engaging in Sexual Contact with Minor

Ford was taken into custody on January 17, 2025, following an investigation that began when a school resource officer was alerted to a possible inappropriate relationship between the coach and a student.

The charges against Ford include:

• Unlawful sexual activity with minors
• Offenses against students by an authority figure
• Traveling to meet a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity
• Use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony

Student in Sexual Relationship with High School Coach

Police interviewed the student, who reported that she and Ford began communicating via text and phone calls in January 2024. Their interactions escalated to in-person meetings outside of school starting in August 2024.

The student disclosed that a sexual encounter occurred in September 2024 when she was 16 years old.

School District Responses to Coach’s Arrest

Marion County Public Schools has taken swift action in response to the allegations. As of Thursday, January 16, 2025:

• Ford is no longer employed at West Port High School
• He has been banned from campus

This developing story highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and protective measures within educational institutions to safeguard students from potential abuse.

Legal Pathways for Victims: Expert Advice on Coach Sexual Abuse Cases

The arrest of James Edward Ford III, a high school football coach in Ocala, Florida, for alleged sexual misconduct with a minor student has brought the issue of educator sexual abuse back into the spotlight. This distressing incident raises urgent questions about the legal rights of victims and the accountability of educational institutions. To address these concerns, we spoke with Michael Haggard, a seasoned attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. In this interview, Haggard offers valuable guidance for victims and their families, outlining the legal options available and the steps necessary to hold negligent parties responsible. His insights provide a roadmap for those seeking to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding these sensitive cases, emphasizing the importance of swift action and experienced legal representation.

Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal options do victims of sexual abuse by high school coaches have?

Michael Haggard, Esq.: Victims have multiple avenues for legal action. They can pursue criminal charges against the abuser and file civil lawsuits. These lawsuits can target not only the perpetrator but also the school district or other entities that may have failed in their duty to protect students.

Banville: How can parents and victims hold negligent parties accountable in civil lawsuits?

Haggard: Civil lawsuits allow victims to seek compensation and hold institutions responsible for their failures. To prove negligence, plaintiffs must demonstrate duty of care, breach of that duty, causation, and damages. Schools have a responsibility to ensure student safety. They may be liable if they failed to properly screen staff, ignored warning signs, or didn’t implement adequate safeguards. This can include negligent hiring, insufficient supervision, or failure to address complaints or suspicions of misconduct appropriately.

Banville: What kinds of damages can victims seek in these cases?

Haggard: Victims can seek various forms of compensation, including medical expenses for physical and psychological treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of educational opportunities, and punitive damages in cases of gross negligence. Each case is unique, and the specific damages will depend on the individual circumstances.

Banville: Are there specific challenges in these types of cases?

Haggard: Yes, these cases can be complex. One challenge is establishing causation – linking the abuse to the specific damages suffered by the victim. Another is overcoming potential defenses by schools or institutions, such as claims of ignorance or adequate policies in place. Additionally, there may be statutory limitations on liability for public institutions, which can affect the legal strategy.

Banville: What guidance would you offer to families considering legal action?

Haggard: I advise families to prioritize the victim’s well-being and seek appropriate support and counseling. Document everything related to the abuse and its effects. Report the abuse to law enforcement and school authorities promptly. Consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases as soon as possible to understand their rights and options. Be aware of statutes of limitations, which can vary by state and type of claim. Taking legal action can be a powerful way to seek justice, prevent future abuse, and promote institutional change.

Your Path to Justice Starts Here

The trauma of sexual abuse by a trusted authority figure can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face this challenge alone. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a high school coach, remember that you have rights and options. Our team of dedicated attorneys is here to support you every step of the way. We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your legal options and the potential for holding negligent institutions accountable. Don’t let time constraints or fear silence your voice. Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to seek the justice you deserve and help prevent future abuses. Your courage can make a difference – not just for yourself, but for others who may be at risk. Contact us now to take the first step towards healing and accountability.

Source:

https://www.wesh.com/article/ocala-high-school-coach-unlawful-sexual-activity-minor/63473558