Sonoma Soccer Coach Begins Civil Trial, Accused of Sexual Misconduct

The Santa Rosa Press Democrat reports that Gregory Vance Tatton, 45, who served eight months in prison after pleading guilty to having unlawful sex with a minor, is being sued in civil court by his victim's family, who previously expressed frustration at Tatton's short jail time_.

The league and Sam Honey, its president at the time of the incident, are also being sued for negligence.

"The lawsuit alleges the association president, Honey, was a personal friend of Tatton who didn't investigate his background before hiring him. It alleges Honey turned a blind eye to his behavior, allowing him to “infiltrate” the organization's leadership."

The suit alleges that Tatton, 45, engaged in misconduct during tours with his female team: sharing rooms with the girls and giving them alcohol - both in violation of league rules. The now 19-year-old woman also accuses Tatton, 45, of sexual battery and assault in the civil suit.

"Her lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for humiliation and embarrassment as well as depression, anxiety and emotional and physical distress, Scott Lewis, the woman's attorney, said. "

“The events underlying this lawsuit should never have happened,” the suit said. “There is an unfortunate yet well-known risk that male predators pose as coaches to serve their own desires.”

Both sides will be heard Tuesday, a courtroom trial is expected to begin in October.