David O’Connor
Tacoma LDS Church Member &
Former Curtis Junior High Wrestling Coach
… did it happen to you?
Were you or someone you know sexually abused, groped, or fondled by David O’Connor?
We can get you the justice you seek and the compensation that you deserve.
CASE UPDATE: Washington Law Center has recently recovered nearly $14 million dollars for victims abuse suffered at the hands of wrestling coach David O’Connor in the University Place School District.
David O’Connor – LDS Church “Guaranteed” Safety of Sex Offender
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, also known as the LDS Church, failed the Tacoma Community. Instead of vigorously defending the safety of children, it went out of its way to not only vouch for David O’Connor, a convicted child sex offender, but was “happy to guarantee” that this sex offender was “no threat to society”.
Unfortunately, in the years following this personal guarantee, David O’Connor went on to sexually abuse scores of children throughout the University Place and Tacoma Region.
On October 18, 1977, David O’Connor was convicted of three felonies relates to sexual acts with children. Specifically, David O’Connor was deemed a “sexual psychopath” by the State of Washington and confined to prison after being found guilty of sex crimes.
David O’Connor was an active member of the LDS Church. After he was convicted of sex crimes against children, a “church court” was held and David O’Connor “disfellowshiped” from the Church. Yet, he continued to try and participate in Church activities. Ultimately, due to his persistence, the Church granted his fellowship prior to 1980 during the time he was in sex offender treatment.
Beyond granting fellowship to a convicted sex offender who was actively in sex offender treatment for crimes against children, Bishop James Ely of the South Tacoma Stake befriended O’Connor and worked to get him released from sex offender treatment. This conduct failed the Tacoma Community.
Specifically, as you can read below, Bishop James R. Ely, critiqued the sex offender treatment that David O’Connor was receiving and indicated that by continuing in it there would be a “marked deterioration” to him. Bishop Ely did not believe that the sex offender treatment “would do anybody any good, especially Mr. O’Connor”, the convict.
Tacoma LDS Church Member – Convicted Sexual Predator
About David O’Connor
David O’Connor was an active member of the LDS Church. After he was convicted of sex crimes against children, a “church court” was held and David O’Connor “disfellowshiped” from the Church. Yet, he continued to try and participate in Church activities. Ultimately, due to his persistence, the Church granted his fellowship prior to 1980 during the time he was in sex offender treatment.
Additional Details
After critiquing the treatment that was designed to rehabilitate sex offenders and keep the public safe, Bishop Ely went ever further, in that, he requested that David O’Connor be released prior to completing the treatment. As seen above, Bishop Ely wrote that he would be “happy to sponsor or take responsibility for Mr. O’Connor at any time.” Beyond that, Bishop Ely wrote that, “I would be happy to guarantee that [David O’Connor] is rehabilitated and ready to continue progressing in his life, and that he no longer needs the help of Western State Hospital.”
Ultimately, David O’Connor was released and welcome back into the Tacoma LDS Community. The Bishop had a made a personal guarantee of safety and with that David O’Connor became increasingly involved with Boy Scouts, wrestling, weight lifting and other associated activities. He preyed on children. Many of the children he abused were young boys that were told to trust David O’Connor. They were encouraged to spend time with him. The conduct of the Church leadership at that time failed the many victims of David O’Connor.
As time progressed it has been learned that many members of the community, some of which are still very active within the LDS Church, were abused. They feel that they were betrayed by the Church leadership and desire accountability.
We can help. We know that your faith is important to you. We know that you do not desire to “hurt” the Church. In fact, we have seen the LDS Church in past circumstances come forward and attempt to make victims whole, especially those who are still active members. Seeking accountability is Biblical and shining a light on the failures of the past will help protect children of the future.
If you or anyone you know was abused by David O’Connor we would be happy to hold a confidential consultation with you. Our consultation is not an interrogation. It is an opportunity for you to get your questions answered. It is an opportunity for you to learn how we can help you seek accountability for the abuse you were subjected to. We are ready to help.
Read about David O’Connor’s Criminal History here.
FAQ
Church Sexual Abuse Attorney FAQs
Do I have a claim even if I was not forced to perform a sex act against my will?
Yes, a common misconception amongst victims is that what happened to them was not “as bad” as what happened to someone else and that their claim does not merit prosecution. This is incorrect. Sexual perpetrators do not abuse only in one way. We have represented victims of David O’Connor’s abuse that range, as expected.
Some victims were subjected to “exams” during weight lifting or wrestling practices where they were exposed merely for the sexual gratification of O’Connor. This is voyeurism and it is illegal. It is childhood sexual abuse. Other victims were touched inappropriately and coerced to discuss sexual topics at a very young age. And yes, others were sexually violated.
No matter where on the spectrum, we are here to help answer your questions and seek accountability and justice for you.
Why would the Church be liable for David O’Connor?
It is our position that when Church leadership, here the Bishop of the Tacoma Washington South Stake, personally guarantees the safety of the community, he should be held to that promise. The Church not only gave fellowship back to O’Connor but they sought to have him dismissed early from sexual offender treatment without putting any meaningful safety mechanisms in place.
The Church leadership should never have sought the release from sexual offender treatment and if it did, it certainly should not have ever allowed O’Connor, at any time, around children. The community should have been warned.
Instead, it appears that the community was shielded form the fact that David O’Connor was a “sexual psychopath” and was welcomed back in to the 11th Ward and given access to children. It is our opinion that the LDS Church is liable for the conduct of David O’Connor.
I never spoke up, can I still pursue my claim?
Yes. Children process trauma, especially sexual trauma, much differently than adults. Most immediately try and cope and move forward. Many try to force away the memories. The feelings of shame and embarrassment combined with the powerful position that David O’Connor held makes victims feel without a voice. We encourage you to reach out. We will listen and answer your questions. We have represented victims of David O’Connor’s sexual abuse that are active members of the Church and have kept this secret from family, spouses and friends due to the trauma it caused and yet we were still able to help.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Claims in Washington?
In the state of Washington, the statute of limitations to report a claim of sexual abuse has been revised to allow for the victim of these actions time to recognize what happened to them and how it affected their lives.
It’s never too late to come forward and seek guidance from a trusted legal professional. You are not alone. Our attorneys have represented individuals just like you who were also wondering if they had a case because the sexual abuse happened so long ago. Don’t wait another day, contact the experienced sexual abuse lawyers at Washington Law Center.
What Should I do If I AM or WAS the Victim of Childhood Sexual Abuse?
Washington Law Center is committed to helping the victims of sexual abuse and sexual assault. Please refer to the following organizations below for more information and advice for survivors of sexual abuse or sexual assault and their loved ones. If you have questions regarding legal matters related to sexual abuse or sexual assualt, please contact the attorneys of Washington Law Center.
RAINN: Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network
- Website: www.rainn.org
- Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
- Website: www.rainn.org
- Phone: 1-877-739-3895
Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs
- Website: www.wcsap.org
- Phone: (360) 754-7583
What are the signs or long term effects of sexual abuse?
Signs of sexual abuse do not follow a specific pattern. While some may respond immediately to the traumatic experiences, others may take months and in some cases, years to react. Additionally, some may recover very quickly while others have lasting effects they will battle all their life. The impact of sexual abuse varies from person to person. It can occur on several different levels including physical, mental, and emotional.
Victims of sexual abuse or assault may display some of the following signs:
- Fear, particularly in response to situations that remind them of the abuse
- An overall sense of anxiety, as if they will never feel safe again
- Problems concentrating and focusing on tasks
- Flashbacks
- Guilt
- Negative self-image
- Anger
- Depression
- Disruptions and conflicts in close relationships
- Loss of interest in sex
For teens who have been the victims of sexual abuse, some of the signs differ. Common signs of sexual abuse in teens include:
- Self-harm (i.e. cutting)
- Drug and alcohol abuse
- Sexual promiscuity
- Suicide thoughts or attempts
- Inadequate personal hygiene
- Fear of intimacy
- Compulsive eating or dieting
Curtis Jr. High School Sex Abuse Case Details
About David O’Connor
In 1977, David O’Connor was arrested for indecent liberties against a minor child in Lewis County, Washington. A court deemed O’Connor to be a “sexual psychopath” and ordered him to not have any contact with children under the age of 15. Yet, David O’Connor was then given unfettered access to children, via the wrestling program, at Curtis Junior High School in University Place, Washington.
Additional Case Details
According to legal filings, David O’Connor has been charged with multiple counts of third-degree child molestation. The alleged incidents of sexual abuse took place on school grounds as well as at a number of homes in the area.
O’Connor served as a volunteer assistant coach at Curtis Junior High School during the 2003-04, 2004-05, and 2005-06 school years and also at Curtis High School during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 school years.
Read about David O’Connor’s Criminal History here.
The David O’Connor Case In The News
Tacoma News Tribune – Attorney Ashton Dennis, of Washington Law Center, told The News Tribune that the plaintiffs in this case had sought out positive change. “They’ve undoubtedly done so and they deserve our thanks,” he said. (Read Article)
KIRO7 – University Place School District settles near 20-year old sex abuse case (Read Article)
Tri-City Herald – ‘Coaches are very powerful’: Pierce County school district settles sex-abuse claims (Read Article)
MyNorthwest – University Place School District settles sexual abuse case for $9.5M (Read Article)
FOX13 – University Place School District pays $9.5M to settle student sex abuse claims (Read Article)
Yahoo News – Survivor of alleged sexual abuse by former wrestling coach speaking out hoping to inspire other victims (Read Article)
FOX13 – University Place SD to pay $4.2M to student victims after hiring coach convicted for sexual abuse (Read Article)
Tacoma News Tribune – Men who alleged abuse by former Curtis wrestling coach will get millions from district (Read Article)
KIRO 7 – University Place School District to pay $4.25M to students in sexual abuse cases (Read Article)
Curtis Junior High School Sexual Abuse Case
Prior to his time with Curtis Junior High’s wrestling team, assistant coach David O’Connor was convicted of indecent liberties and identified as a “sexual psychopath”, according to Court records.
David O’Connor regularly performed what he would describe as “hernia” or “prostate” exams on athletes which were merely a guise to fondle young boys. It has also been alleged that David O’Connor repeatedly sexually assaulted young boys and had them perform sex acts in front of him.
The victims of David O’Connor’s abuse have suffered lifelong harm and are seeking justice.
The University Place School District and Curtis Junior High School owed a duty of care towards its students to keep them safe. They are negligent for hiring a sexual psychopath to supervise, coach or interact with its students.
Scores of children have come forward and are seeking justice. Ashton Dennis along with the team at Washington Law Center represents a number of O’Connor’s victims. We encourage anyone who has been abused by David O’Connor to contact our office immediately, as we are working diligently on these claims. Equally, those with information related to David O’Conner are asked to contact us immediately.
We’re here to listen and we’ll fight for you.
Free Case Review with an Sex Abuse Attorney
We’ve Recovered Millions For Victims of Sexual Abuse.
FAQ
School Sexual Abuse Attorney FAQs
What is the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Claims in Washington?
In the state of Washington, the statute of limitations to report a claim of sexual abuse has been revised to allow for the victim of these actions time to recognize what happened to them and how it affected their lives.
It’s never too late to come forward and seek guidance from a trusted legal professional. You are not alone. Our attorneys have represented individuals just like you who were also wondering if they had a case because the sexual abuse happened so long ago. Don’t wait another day, contact the experienced sexual abuse lawyers at Washington Law Center.
I Was Abused As A Child, Can I Still File A Claim?
How Does Washington State Define Sexual Misconduct With A Minor?
Pursuant to Chapter 9A.44 RCW, Sexual Misconduct with a Minor in the First Degree involves any form of sexual intercourse (penetration), and in the Second Degree involves any form of sexual contact with an individual older than 16, but less than 18, unless the intercourse or contact is committed upon a person less than 21 by a person who holds a supervisory position over the victim, including by a teacher, foster parent, etc.
Learn more (link to blog) https://www.washingtonlawcenter.com/sexual-misconduct-minor/
What Should I do If I AM or WAS the Victim of Childhood Sexual Abuse?
Washington Law Center is committed to helping the victims of sexual abuse and sexual assault. Please refer to the following organizations below for more information and advice for survivors of sexual abuse or sexual assault and their loved ones. If you have questions regarding legal matters related to sexual abuse or sexual assualt, please contact the attorneys of Washington Law Center.
RAINN: Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network
- Website: www.rainn.org
- Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
- Website: www.rainn.org
- Phone: 1-877-739-3895
Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs
- Website: www.wcsap.org
- Phone: (360) 754-7583
What are the signs or long term effects of sexual abuse?
Signs of sexual abuse do not follow a specific pattern. While some may respond immediately to the traumatic experiences, others may take months and in some cases, years to react. Additionally, some may recover very quickly while others have lasting effects they will battle all their life. The impact of sexual abuse varies from person to person. It can occur on several different levels including physical, mental, and emotional.
Victims of sexual abuse or assault may display some of the following signs:
- Fear, particularly in response to situations that remind them of the abuse
- An overall sense of anxiety, as if they will never feel safe again
- Problems concentrating and focusing on tasks
- Flashbacks
- Guilt
- Negative self-image
- Anger
- Depression
- Disruptions and conflicts in close relationships
- Loss of interest in sex
For teens who have been the victims of sexual abuse, some of the signs differ. Common signs of sexual abuse in teens include:
- Self-harm (i.e. cutting)
- Drug and alcohol abuse
- Sexual promiscuity
- Suicide thoughts or attempts
- Inadequate personal hygiene
- Fear of intimacy
- Compulsive eating or dieting
How long does a sexual abuse case take?
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