OREGON HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

HOUSE DISTRICT 26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Rep. Matt Wingard
June 26, 2009	503-986-1426

HOUSE PASSES WINGARD BILL TO TOUGHEN SENTENCES

AGAINST SEXUALLY ABUSIVE COACHES

Bill Now Moves to Senate

SALEM— The House of Representatives tonight unanimously passed a bill sponsored by Rep. Matt Wingard (R-Wilsonville) to toughen sentences against athletic coaches who sexually abuse their young athletes. HB 2476 creates a presumptive sentence for sexually abusive coaches, who would face a minimum of 16 months in prison if convicted.

“Currently, some athletic coaches who sexually abuse their young athletes could only face probation,” Rep. Wingard said. “HB 2476 sends a strong message to athletic coaches that sexual abuse is a betrayal of trust, and there will be consequences that suit this serious misconduct. With adjournment quickly approaching, the Senate must pass this critical public safety bill without delay.”

Rep. Wingard introduced the bill on behalf of Ray Thomas, a constituent whose daughter's coach was charged with victimizing her. While testifying to the House Judiciary Committee last February, Thomas said the trust and authority provided to coaches is so great that there should be enhanced penalties to recognize the great damage caused when a coach crosses the line into illegal contact.

"If this measure becomes law it will create discussion and become part of professional training in coaching, school and athletic circles,” Thomas told Judiciary members. “A presumptive prison sentence instead of probation for a coach who victimizes their athletes will make potential offenders think twice. Prison time is a fair consequence for someone who betrays the team and team members they were supposed to care for and lead on and off the field.”

Rep. Wingard thanked Thomas and Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Darian Stanford for their efforts in bringing the Legislature’s attention to the issue and for helping to develop the legislation.

“I was pleased to work with Ray and Darian on this bill,” Rep. Wingard said. “Thanks to their efforts, we are able to turn a tragedy into effective legislation that would protect countless young Oregon athletes in the future.”

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