In a community where parents entrust educators and coaches with the safety and development of their children, few stories hit harder than allegations of betrayal at the hands of those very figures. Recently, the arrest and charging of Jabari Emil DeShields, a 36-year-old assistant basketball coach at Simi Valley High School, has sent ripples of concern through Ventura County and beyond. Accused of committing lewd acts against two vulnerable 14-year-old girls, DeShields’ case serves as a painful illustration of how predators can exploit positions of authority.
As a law firm dedicated to advocating for survivors of sexual abuse, KMD Law extends our deepest compassion to the young victims in this case and their families. The courage it takes to come forward, especially against someone in a role meant to inspire and protect, cannot be overstated.
If you or a loved one has endured similar experiences, know that you are not alone, and justice is possible. Our team is here to listen without judgment and to fight relentlessly on your behalf, no matter the influence or status of the perpetrator.
The Details of the Simi Valley Case
According to KTLA, local authorities claim DeShields allegedly approached the two 14-year-old girls at a Simi Valley business before engaging in inappropriate acts with them inside his van and at a nearby hotel on multiple occasions. The incidents came to light on November 6, 2025, when a vigilant community member witnessed the teens exiting DeShields’ van at a local park and promptly alerted the Simi Valley Police Department. This quick action by a concerned citizen underscores the vital role everyday people play in safeguarding our youth.
DeShields now faces five counts of lewd acts upon a child under 14, along with a special allegation highlighting the victims’ vulnerability; a formal claim that reflects the profound power imbalance at play. He was arrested that same day by SVPD Major Crimes Detectives and made his first court appearance shortly after, where he pleaded not guilty. Currently held on $20,000 bail, DeShields is scheduled for an early disposition conference on November 21, 2025, in Ventura County Superior Court. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Julia McAndrew of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit, a team known for its commitment to holding offenders accountable.
While the legal process unfolds, this incident raises urgent questions about screening and oversight in school athletic programs. At KMD Law, we’ve seen firsthand how such environments, built on trust and mentorship, can unfortunately become breeding grounds for exploitation when safeguards fail.
Understanding the Trauma of Sexual Abuse in Youth Sports
For the victims in this case, the road to healing will be long. At just 14 years old, these girls were navigating the vulnerabilities of adolescence when they encountered someone who should have been a role model. The betrayal isn’t just personal; it’s systemic, eroding the sense of safety in places like gyms, fields, and classrooms where children spend so much of their time.
Sexual abuse leaves invisible scars that can manifest as anxiety, depression, trust issues, and even physical health challenges later in life. Research from organizations like RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) shows that one in six women and one in 33 men experience attempted or completed sexual assault in their lifetime, with many incidents occurring during childhood or involving authority figures. In youth sports alone, the U.S. Center for SafeSport revealed in its annual report that nearly 8100 reports of abuse were received in 2024; yet underreporting remains a staggering barrier due to fear, shame, or disbelief.
We at KMD Law approach every case with profound empathy, recognizing that the decision to speak out is often the hardest step. Our clients aren’t defined by their trauma; they’re resilient survivors deserving of a future unshadowed by injustice. Whether the abuser is a coach, teacher, family member, or community leader, we believe no one is too powerful to escape accountability. We’ve successfully represented survivors against high-profile individuals and local school districts, securing not just financial compensation but also policy changes that protect others.
Empowering Survivors: How KMD Law Stands with You
At KMD Law, our mission is clear: to transform pain into purpose by pursuing justice with unwavering resolve.
We specialize in sexual abuse litigation, offering:
- Confidential Consultations: Your story is yours to share. We provide a safe, private space to discuss your options without pressure.
- Expert Guidance Through the Legal Maze: From gathering evidence and navigating statutes of limitations to building airtight cases, our team leverages decades of experience to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Holistic Support: We connect clients with trusted therapists, support groups, and resources tailored to rebuilding lives. Justice isn’t just about the courtroom; it’s about restoration.
One of our guiding principles is that power imbalances should never silence victims. Stories like this Simi Valley case remind us why we do this work: to ensure that no person—child or adult—suffers in silence.
If the DeShields’ case resonates with your own experience, or if you’re grappling with memories of abuse in a similar setting, please reach out. The statute of limitations in California for childhood sexual abuse has been extended, giving many survivors more time to seek justice, often up to the age of 40 or within five years of discovering the harm.
Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back; let us carry the weight.
Your Voice Matters: Take the First Step Toward Healing and Justice
The Simi Valley community, and communities everywhere, must continue fostering vigilance, from bystander interventions to robust reporting protocols in schools.
- To the survivors reading this: Your voice has the power to spark change.
- To parents and guardians: Trust your instincts and advocate fiercely.
KMD Law is ready to stand by your side. Contact us today at (833) 456-3529 or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation. You deserve advocates who see your strength, honor the truth, and fight for the justice you deserve.
We’re here for you. Let’s take that first step together.