Jane Doe v. Thomas Atwater

Jane Doe, a former Essex Regional High School varsity girls basketball player, sued Thomas Atwater, the former Essex Regional High School varsity girls basketball coach, sued him on a battery theory claiming that he make sexual advances toward her when she was 17-years-old while they watched team films at his home. Defendant's acts were not illegal but resulted in his dismissal from his coaching position. Plaintiff claimed that she was harmed emotionally and socially as a result of the incident and the disclosure of the fact that it had occurred.

Defendant admitted inviting Plaintiff to his home with several other team members and with putting his hands on her body inside her shirt and inside her pants with intention of fondling her but denied wrongdoing.

Plaintiff's verdict for $5,000.00.

Editor's note: It is not know what damages were sought by Plaintiff or what offers of settlement were made by Defendant before trial but $5,000 is not a significant verdict. Basically, Defendant won the case.