Santa Clarita Basketball Coach Faces Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

On September 14, 2018, Haggerty, aged 34, faces allegations of sexually abusing eight boys in what were supposed to be “private coaching sessions.” These abuses reportedly took place over a span of ten years while he worked at various high schools located in the vicinity of Santa Clarita, as reported by KABC-TV [1].

Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual abuse, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and our lawyers can help.

Update: Lawsuit Filed Against Santa Clarita Basketball Coach Accused of Sexual Abuse

February 20 2019 – A lawsuit has been filed against the William S. Hart Union High School District in Santa Clarita, California, and a former Canyon High School basketball coach who is being accused of multiple counts of sexual abuse. The suit was filed on behalf of a former student who was a minor when the alleged abuse took place, according to Hometown Station KHTS.

What’s the problem?

Authorities began investigating Haggerty in August when the Special Victims Bureau of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department was tipped off about a single complaint of sexual abuse against the former basketball coach. The subsequent investigation has uncovered at least 7 additional victims, ABC7 said.

Investigators determined that Haggerty had coached all 8 boys, who are all adults now, at various points in his career at high schools in the Santa Clarita Valley. Police say he is accused of committing the crimes during individual 1-on-1 coaching sessions. Some of the victims claim the abuse was a systematic and prolonged attack that went on regularly for years, while others claimed it was a one-time encounter.

“He would make it so that he was eventually alone with the victims, providing what he termed ‘body maintenance’ to the victims – another word for massages,” Sgt. Brian Hudson said.

Haggerty worked at the following schools during the time the alleged abuse took place:

• Trinity Classical Academy
• Valencia High School
• Canyon High School
• West Ranch High School

Haggerty was apprehended by authorities as he was leaving another school where he had recently worked, but police declined to provide specifics.

Haggerty’s bail was set at $300,000. He is scheduled to be arraigned on Sept. 17.

More Resources:

• California Supreme Court to Rule on Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations
• L.A. After-School Coach Child Abuse Lawsuit
• Torrance High School Wrestling Coach Child Molestation Case
• Apprehension Legal Definition

FAQs

Can I remain anonymous in a sexual abuse lawsuit?

In some cases, victims may be allowed to proceed under a pseudonym or request confidentiality measures to protect their identity. Consult with your attorney about the possibility of remaining anonymous.

What if the basketball coach has already been convicted of related crimes?

A prior conviction can strengthen your case by demonstrating a pattern of behavior. However, each case is unique, and your attorney will advise on how best to use this information.

Can I sue the school or sports organization where the coach worked?

Yes, you can sue the school or sports organization if they were negligent in hiring, supervising, or failing to take action against the coach. They may also be liable if they ignored reports or signs of abuse.

See all related sexual abuse lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

Do I Have a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

The Sexual Abuse Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in sex abuse lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Free Case Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual abuse, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.