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Charges may be filed today against Terry Lawson, a former wrestling coach in the Mohonasen Central School District in Rotterdam. Lawson is accused of hitting a 14-year-old female student athlete during a wrestling practice. The incident reportedly occurred last Thursday (January 15), leading to Lawson's termination the following day.
According to CBS6 Albany, the Rotterdam Police Department plans to file charges against Lawson, including harassment in the second degree and endangering the welfare of a child. These charges were delayed due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, but are expected to be filed today. Once filed, Lawson will receive a criminal summons to appear in court at a later date.
The student involved, Elexis, is a member of the Mohonasen-Schalmont combined varsity girls' wrestling team. Her mother, Desire Rostocki, stated that Elexis was "goofing off" during practice, which allegedly led to the coach's reaction. Rostocki reviewed surveillance footage that showed her daughter touching the coach's chin to get his attention before the alleged incident occurred. Elexis expressed her confusion and shock, saying, "What just happened? And it was so fast and I was scared," as reported by Times Union.
The Mohonasen Central School District Superintendent, Shannon Shine, confirmed the incident but did not provide further details, citing the ongoing legal process. Shine emphasized the district's commitment to student safety and coach conduct. The Rotterdam Police Department has not made any arrests, and the student's family plans to pursue legal action.