Florida Gators Coach Accused of Cyberstalking, Other Crimes

Stalking may seem like an old school type of crime, but it still happens nowadays in the form of cyberstalking. Cyberstalking does not require you to be in close physical contact with a person. You can stalk a person online through the comfort of a computer, tablet, or even your mobile phone.

The basketball coach for the University of Florida is facing cyberstalking charges and other charges after accusations from multiple women. Florida Gators men’s basketball coach Todd Golden is facing multiple charges from students and other women.

On September 27, Florida received a formal Title IX complaint against Golden. The charges include sexual harassment,  sexual exploitation, and stalking. He aimed these behaviors toward current Florida students and former students. The coach, 39, is a married father of two young boys.

According to the Title IX complaint, Golden sent photos and videos of his genitals, requested sexual favors, and made unwanted sexual advances on Instagram. On multiple occasions, he also took photos of women walking or driving and then sent those photos to the women in the photos. He also showed up in person to locations where he knew the women would be.

Title IX is regulated by the U.S. Department of Education. A school can disclose whether an employee has been accused of sexual harassment if required to do so under another state or federal law.

The University of Florida hired Golden in 2022. He was originally given a six-year, $18 million contract. In March, the school and Golden agreed to a two-year extension. Prior to arriving at Florida, Golden had spent three seasons as the head coach of the University of San Francisco.

Sexual Harassment Among Coaches

Sexual harassment among coaches has been a serious concern, as it undermines the well-being of athletes and disrupts the integrity of sports environments. Harassment can include inappropriate comments, gestures, physical contact, and even coercion, all of which are a violation of professional and ethical boundaries.

Types of harassment include:

• This can include inappropriate jokes, suggestive comments, or sexually explicit remarks.
• Physical. This includes unwanted touching, advances, or any form of physical contact that is not appropriate in a professional coaching relationship.
• Coaches may manipulate students, creating an environment where the athlete feels they must comply with sexual advances in order to maintain their position on the team.

The impact may include:

• Psychological effects. Victims may experience trauma, depression, or anxiety.
• Impact on team dynamics. When harassment is widespread, it can create a toxic environment that disrupts teamwork and morale.
• Damage to reputation. Harassment scandals can damage the reputation of sports organizations, leading to loss of fans and credibility.

Contact a Legal Professional for Help

Cyberstalking may not seem that bad because it’s done online through a computer, but this type of stalking is easy to execute and can cause a lot of harm.

Laws prohibiting certain conduct involving computers and internet technology can be complex. Get legal protections from an experienced Florida computer & internet crime lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit. We have more than 40 years of experience. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call (352) 505-1799.

source:

espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/42273078/report-florida-todd-golden-investigated-stalking-allegations