04/11/2011 // San Francisco, CA, USA // Mary Alexander // Bay Area Sex Abuse Lawyer Mary Alexander
Belmont, CA (Bay Area Sex Abuse Lawyer News) — A former Ralston Middle School custodian and cross-country running coach is facing charges of molestation for allegedly fondling and groping two female students on campus. Andre Edwards, 52, of Hayward was arrested on Thursday, March 17, 2011, around 3:30 p.m. at his home, reported the San Mateo County Times.
The charges stem from two incidents, in which he allegedly fondled a 13-year-old girl in 2001 and groped another girl on November 14 at the school.
In the first incident, Edwards allegedly put his hand down the victim’s pants and touched her. The second incident occurred when a girl visited Edwards in his office before the school day began. The victim claimed that Edwards put his hand on her breast and buttocks at some point during their conversation. The girl then left his office and later began crying in the presence of some friends inside of the bathroom. She reported the incident to school authorities after it happened.
Police officials reported that the 2001 molestation allegation was investigated at the time, but there was not enough evidence, until now, to proceed with charges against Edwards.
The Oakland Tribune reported that Edwards claimed the accuser in the 2001 incident confessed to her best friend that the molestation accusation was false. He said that friend sent a letter to school officials detailing the admission, but he wasn’t sure if it had gone to police.
Edwards is no longer employed at the school, but Belmont police were unsure whether he quit or he was fired.
If found guilty of both molestation charges, Edwards could face up to 10 years in prison.
*Leading San Francisco child sex abuse attorney Mary Alexander states if you or a loved one has been sexually abused or molested, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. Our experience litigating some of the most high-profile, clergy sex abuse cases in California has taught us how to be successful advocates for our clients. Contacting a Bay Area sex abuse lawyer may help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
(*lawyer marketing)
Media Information:
Address:
Phone: 1-866-802-9497
Url: http://bayareaaccidentlawyer.visionsmartnews.com/bay-area-sex-abuse-lawyer-belmont-coach-arrested-for-molestation-of-2-students_4436.html
