Greg Stephen has not yet been sentenced for his crimes, but he will likely be in prison for the rest of his life; the charges against him do specify that he had “authority” over his victims and that constitutes some special circumstances.
Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Special Agent Ryan Kedley said Stephen’s case should serve as a wake-up call to parents to take a second look at the people they are trusting their kids to and with.
“As a father and as a child of a sports coach, I view this as a cautionary tale that parents should look at,” he said.
Of course, I echo Hadley’s sentiments, and I really encourage parents of kids in sports and especially on travel teams and troupes, to talk with their kids about what is and isn’t appropriate behavior and touching or familiarity. Like…it’s probably never a great idea to shower at coach’s house, no matter what, you know? You shouldn’t tell your kids these things to scare them, but to make them aware that no one is immune from being victimized, and that those that do the victimizing and manipulative, savvy, and persistent. We need to make sure our kids are savvy as well, and not afraid to speak out when they feel uncomfortable.
To the Iowa kids and parents who have suffered at the hands of this monster, I am so sorry for what you’ve gone through. I pray for your healing, and that your stories can save other children from experiencing the same pain.
