Hanover Youth Soccer Coach Convicted Of Sex Abuse

HANOVER, MD — A Hanover man has been convicted on three counts of sexually abusing a youth who played for the Maryland City Mustangs soccer team, which the suspect coached, authorities say. Eris Murray, 56, of Hanover, was found guilty of sex abuse of a minor, second-degree sex offense, and sodomy by an Anne Arundel County jury.

In October 2016, workers with the Department of Social Services received a report of child sexual abuse; the victim said he was twice molested in Murray's home. Police say the juvenile victim reported being sexually abused twice about four to eight years ago by Murray. Murray was also the victim's league soccer coach during the time of the reported abuse, and lived on Oak Run Road in Laurel when the abuse took place.

"It is not uncommon for child victims of sexual abuse to report the crime years after the abuse occurred," said Anne Arundel County State's Attorney Wes Adams in a statement on Tuesday. "I applaud this young man's bravery for stepping forward, pursuing justice on his own behalf, and preventing Eris Murray from harming others."

Anne Arundel County Police conducted interviews and worked with the Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney’s office to obtain an arrest warrant for Murray. On Dec. 22, 2016, Murray turned himself in to police on two counts of second-degree sexual offense, two counts of third-degree sexual offense, two counts of fourth-degree sexual offense, sexual abuse of a minor, second-degree child abuse, two counts of second-degree assault, and two counts of sodomy.

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According to charging documents, the victim told investigators that both instances of abuse happened at Murray’s home when the victim was between 8 and 12 years old.

On both dates, the victim was staying at Murray’s residence for the night, according to the Capital-Gazette. The first alleged incident happened as the victim waited for Murray's son to return home, while the second incident happened about six months later when Murray reportedly sent his son out of the room. Police say the victim fell asleep and awoke in Murray's bedroom, where the assault occurred.

Murray faces up to 45 years in prison when he is sentenced Oct. 11 for the convictions.

"I encourage any victim of sexual abuse, no matter when or where the abuse occurred, to contact my office or the local police," Adams said.

Police ask that any other victims contact the Anne Arundel County Child Abuse Unit at 410-222-4733. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866- 7LOCKUP or text “MCS plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).

»Photo of suspect Eris Murray, courtesy of Anne Arundel County Police