Ryan Gunsauls, Soccer Coach Facing 22 Counts of Sexual Abuse

Ryan Gunsauls, a 32-year-old Union Beach soccer coach in New Jersey, has been charged with 22 counts related to child sex abuse of his former players, eight boys ranging in ages from 11 to 17. A brave victim came forward to authorities, launching the investigation. As a result, Gunsaulus is facing:

• eight counts of 2nd degree endangering the welfare of a child
• eight counts of 3rd degree distributing Obscene Materials to a Minor,
• two counts of second-degree Attempted Endangering,
• two counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact,
• And single counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM) and third-degree Possession of CSAM.
• We want survivors to know they are not alone and have options.

Gunsauls also works as a volunteer firefighter in Union Beach, and he used to work as a Union Beach Police dispatcher. The alleged abuse took place over the past few years. Given this man’s trust in his community and his various positions, it is reasonable that there are more victims.

Offenders like Ryan Gunsauls Use Positions of Authority to Groom Children

Offenders often exploit positions of authority within communities—such as coaching, firefighting, and policing—to groom and offend children. Thus leveraging their trusted status to gain access and manipulate vulnerable individuals. These roles inherently involve close, often unsupervised interaction with children, creating opportunities for abusers to establish control and trust. This misuse of authority causes immense harm to the victims and undermines the trust and integrity of these vital community roles. Increasing awareness and implementing stringent safeguarding measures are crucial to protect children and maintain the sanctity of these professions.

Can a Civil Lawsuit Help Victims Seek Justice for the Trauma They May Have Experienced By Ryan Gunsauls?

A civil lawsuit can serve as a crucial avenue for victims seeking justice and redress from the trauma of sexual abuse, especially when organizations are implicated in the wrongdoing. By initiating legal action, survivors can hold both individual perpetrators and the institutions that may have enabled or failed to prevent the abuse accountable for their actions. Civil suits allow victims to seek compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm they have endured, helping to alleviate the financial burdens associated with medical and therapeutic expenses.

Additionally, these lawsuits contribute to the broader goal of raising awareness about the prevalence of sexual abuse and fostering a culture that prioritizes the safety and well-being of individuals over organizational interests. Legal proceedings also offer survivors a platform to share their experiences, thereby challenging the culture of silence surrounding sexual abuse and empowering others to come forward.

Can I File A Lawsuit Against The School?

Yes. You might have rights if you were a victim of Ryan Gunsauls.

Andreozzi + Foote is a leading sexual abuse law firm in the nation. Contact us today to discuss your possible legal rights.