According to a news report by KTLA, a well known Orange County swim instructor, Todd Sousa, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of child molestation and rape.  Citing Orange County Sheriff Department sources, KTLA went on to report the 15-year-old female victim and her mother walked into Irvine Police Department Wednesday to report that she had sex on four occasions with her swim coach.  Sousa, 36, was arrested Thursday at J. Serra Catholic High School, where he was coaching.  Sousa's company, which he has been operating with his wife since 1994, leases pool space from campuses for swim lessons and is not employed by any schools.  Anyone with information is asked to contact authorities at 714-647-4005.

See the full story HERE.

Generally, the courts have not imposed vicarious liability on private or public entities for sexual assaults or misconduct of their employees.  However, where an employer fails to take protective measures to deter sexual exploitation of minors in their care, such as adequately supervising and enforcing applicable rules and regulations, liability may be imposed.  For example, where it is apparent a minor has become infatuated with an adult and the two are spending unusual amounts of time alone together, the adult's employer may be liable if the minor is victimized.  Under California law, liability may be imposed on a private employer or public entity where the defendant knew or should have known the exploitation was likely to occur, but did not intervene to deter such misconduct.

Compensation for victims of sexual abuse and harassment, especially where the victim is a minor, should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a private or public employer allows such victimization to occur, when they knew or should have known it could happen, they should be held accountable.  An Orange County trial lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been a victim of medical neglect?

  • Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.