Sometimes, old mistakes become contemporary dilemmas, even if decades pass after an incident. That's what happened to Alabama high school teacher Henry Joel Snow, 57, when a former student claimed that he forcibly had sex with her when he was her softball coach.

The former Tuscaloosa County student came forward in February 2020, alleging that she was between 13 – 15 when the assault happened. At the time, Snow was 32 and a teacher and coach for the girls' softball team at Holt High School.

After concluding a lengthy investigation, officials placed Snow under administrative leave, and he is awaiting trial on $45,000 bail. He faces two counts of first-degree rape, one count of first-degree sodomy, and one count of second-degree sodomy.

Snow's case is one example of how old allegations of sexual abuse resurface and ruin one's reputation and career. Although the alleged victim is now an adult, the statute of limitations doesn't expire in Alabama for sex with minors, and Snow did not expect the victim to come forward after 25 years.

Implications of Sexual Misconduct Allegations

School staff and coaches around the country must be overly-cautious when working with underage students. Whether it's revenge for a low grade or a misconstrued word or action, teachers can face accusations of sexual misconduct by students even if they are innocent.

School staff can face prison time, penalties, and loss of privileges when old sexual misconduct allegations resurface. They cannot work with students or be around children anymore and may have to register as sex offenders. In worst-case scenarios, their face is all over national news sites, permanently damaging their reputation.

If you face old allegations of sexual misconduct, building a strong defense strategy is the best way to receive a favorable case outcome. With a knowledgeable legal advisor who possesses a firm understanding of the law, you can face allegations with confidence and protect your career and reputation.

Why You Need an Attorney

When years pass after an alleged incident occurs, the investigation relies on the accuser's claims and old, unreliable evidence. Accusers and witnesses may not remember the full details of the incident, further complicating the case. Attorney-Advisor Joseph D. Lento identifies the gaps in the investigation process, preventing memory lapses from causing you a lifetime of legal challenges.

Without the help of a professional, you may lose years of hard work and effort building your career. Even if the accusations are baseless, you must still prove that you did not engage in sexual misconduct to clear your name. Without the right defense strategy, you may become a victim of bias and mistreatment by your school administration and even your peers.

Don't let old sexual misconduct allegations ruin your life. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 to discuss your case discreetly and in confidence.