UPDATE: Youth Football Coach Will Be CHARGED For Smacking 9-Year-Old During Game
As we previously reported, law enforcement launched a child abuse investigation into Gerrell Williams over the Dec. 7 incident that took place at a youth football event in Kissimmee, Florida. Williams was seen on camera snacking a nine-year-old during the game and the video instantly went viral, sparking outrage online. The video was widely condemned by star athletes including Lebron James, Bruce Smith, Shannon Sharpe, and more.
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The youth football coach has since apologized for his actions and the mother of the young boy told officers that she did NOT want to move forward with criminal charges against Williams. But according to the latest update, he has just been hit with child abuse charges over the incident. Prosecutors explained in a statement:
“The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office along with our local state attorney’s office have reviewed this case and the decision has been made that charges for child abuse will be filed, regardless of parent’s decision not to press charges,” Maj. Jacob Ruiz said. “The actions of this person are despicable and there is zero-tolerance when it comes to the abuse of a child.”
As stated before, it’s usually tough for prosecutors to get a conviction without a cooperating victim. However, officials feel the video and witnesses will be enough to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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RELATED: UPDATE: Youth Football Coach Investigated For Child Abuse After Smacking Kid On Camera