Key Takeaways
- Stephen Kerlew, a North Carolina tennis coach, faces serious criminal allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor.
- At the time of his arrest, he worked at Westport Swim & Tennis Club, which terminated his employment following the charges.
- Kerlew has a history of child sex crime allegations, including a plea related to child neglect from 2001 in Florida.
- Survivors of abuse may pursue civil lawsuits against perpetrators and institutions; many states have extended statutes of limitations.
- The abuse of young athletes often goes unreported due to shame and fear, highlighting the need for protective measures in sports organizations.
A North Carolina tennis coach who worked with children and young athletes is facing serious criminal allegations involving the sexual abuse of a minor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stephen Kerlew
Who is Stephen Kerlew?
According to law enforcement officials, Stephen Montgomery Kerlew, 64, was arrested in Lincoln County, North Carolina. He was charged with multiple offenses related to the alleged sexual abuse of a child. Investigators allege that the abuse occurred over a period of time. It involved a minor who had contact with Kerlew through his role as a tennis professional. Kerlew is currently being held without bond as the investigation continues.
Where did Stephen Kerlew work?
At the time of his arrest, Kerlew had been working as a tennis professional at Westport Swim & Tennis Club near Lake Norman. Following the allegations, the club announced that it had immediately terminated its relationship with Kerlew. Moreover, it was cooperating with law enforcement authorities.
Can survivors file a civil lawsuit?
Depending on the facts of the case and applicable law, survivors may be able to pursue civil claims against responsible individuals and institutions.
What if the abuse happened years ago?
Many states have extended statutes of limitations for childhood sexual abuse claims. Survivors should speak with an attorney regarding their specific circumstances.
What Allegations Have Been Made Against Stephen Kerlew?
Reports have revealed that Kerlew previously faced child sex crime allegations in Florida more than two decades ago. Court records indicate that in 2001, he was charged with multiple offenses involving minors, including allegations of sexual activity with a child and lewd conduct. According to published reports, Kerlew ultimately entered a plea to a child neglect-related offense. The remaining charges were dismissed.
Additionally, records show that Kerlew was later subject to action by the U.S. Center for SafeSport. He was prohibited from participating in certain organized tennis activities beginning in 2021. This was based on a criminal disposition involving a minor.
Public reporting further indicates that concerns about Kerlew’s past had been raised with individuals connected to the tennis community years before his recent arrest. As a result, questions are now being asked about whether sufficient safeguards were in place to protect children who participated in youth tennis programs where Kerlew worked.
The Risks of Abuse in Youth Sports
Cases involving coaches, trainers, and youth sports professionals are particularly troubling because they often involve positions of trust and authority. Young athletes and their families frequently rely on coaches for mentorship, instruction, and opportunities for advancement. Unfortunately, some offenders exploit that trust to gain access to children. They engage in grooming behaviors that can escalate into sexual abuse.
Survivors of abuse in youth sports frequently struggle with feelings of confusion. Failing to recognize warning signs or responding appropriately to concerns places children at risk.
Can Survivors of Abuse by Stephen Kerlew File Lawsuits?
In addition to criminal prosecution, survivors of childhood sexual abuse may have the right to pursue civil claims against both the perpetrator and any institution that enabled, ignored, concealed, or failed to prevent the abuse.
Civil lawsuits can help survivors obtain compensation for therapy expenses, emotional distress, lost educational or career opportunities, and other damages resulting from the abuse. They can also serve an important role in uncovering institutional failures. In addition, they can prevent future harm to children.
Speak with an Experienced North Carolina sexual abuse attorney
The North Carolina sexual abuse attorneys at Andreozzi + Foote have represented survivors of childhood sexual abuse in cases involving schools, youth organizations, religious institutions, camps, foster care programs, and athletic organizations. They have done this across the country.
If you or someone you love was abused by Stephen Kerlew or another individual in a position of trust, you may have legal options. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights. Additionally, they can investigate potential claims and pursue accountability against those responsible.
Contact Andreozzi + Foote for a free and confidential consultation to learn more about your legal options.
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