Former High School Wrestling Coach Indicted on Multiple Sex Abuse Claims

It’s every parent’s worst nightmare – discovering that their child has become the victim of sexual abuse at the hands of a person who was thought to be a trusted instructor. The latest disturbing incident unfolded at Princeton Senior High School when a Mercer County grand jury indicted a wrestling coach on seven charges of alleged sexual abuse with a minor.

A tip provided by an assistant wrestling coach led to the arrest earlier this year of the wrestling coach, Travis Francisco.

According to a report by WVVA, Francisco was “indicted on charges including sexual contact against a student by a school employee, sexual abuse in the third degree, sexual assault in the third degree, soliciting a minor via computer, and traveling to engage the minor in sexual activity.”

The criminal complaint alleges that multiple sex acts occurred between Francisco and the alleged victim within the locker room during wrestling practice. Unfortunately, those were not the only incidents.

The alleged abuse also occurred between Francisco and the alleged victim while they were traveling and staying in motels for various wrestling events. There were also incidents cited in the complaint that happened at Francisco’s business, Royal Fades Barber Shop in Princeton. Francisco remains in jail on a $75,000 cash/surety bond.

Sadly, instances of abuse often occur off school property. However, that does not entirely exonerate the school or the school district. The school is obligated to thoroughly screen every staff member.

That screening should also include information about the warning signs of sexual abuse and how to report the incident. It is also incumbent upon the school to maintain rigorous safety standards, both on school property and during away trips.

Yes, this means the supervisors also need supervision.

Remaining Vigilant To Protect Our Children

We must also be vigilant whenever our children are placed in potentially vulnerable situations outside the school environment. Recently, Hendrickson & Long, PLLC filed a civil complaint against Gym Nest, Inc., for an incident of sexual abuse of a minor that was perpetrated by one of the coaches at that franchise business.

That coach was sentenced to 35 years in prison. However, there are actionable liability issues that can be brought against the business entity.

At Hendrickson & Long, PLLC, we understand the importance of advocating on behalf of the rights of survivors. That advocacy involves holding institutions and individuals accountable through the civil justice system.

There doesn’t have to be a criminal guilty verdict in order to file a civil complaint. If your family is struggling with this type of situation, we understand how difficult it can be. We also understand how important it is to seek out a measure of accountability that can not only compensate your family but possibly prevent this type of abuse from happening.

Contact our offices to schedule a confidential and complimentary consultation today.