Domestic Violence Charges Dropped for Former USF Coach
Domestic violence and theft charges have been dropped against a former college football coach, according to court documents filed in St. Petersburg, Florida. The 68-year-old man was arrested in August after an altercation with a former romantic partner at a local apartment complex.
Initially, prosecutors charged the former coach with felony grand theft and two misdemeanor counts: one for simple battery and another for domestic battery. The alleged actions included grabbing the woman’s arm as she attempted to leave, taking more than $5,000 in Louis Vuitton items, including a purse, wallet, and clutch. The man also pushed another person who was present during the incident.
However, after an investigation, prosecutors determined that “the facts and circumstances revealed do not warrant prosecution at this time” and officially dropped all charges.
The coach had served as head of a college football program since its start in 1997, achieving a No. 2 national ranking in 2007 and accumulating a 95-57 win-loss record over 13 seasons. He was dismissed from that position in 2010 after a separate incident involving physical conduct toward a player. In June, the same school had announced that the coach would be inducted into its Athletics Hall of Fame in October.
Why Do People Engage in Domestic Violence?
At its core, domestic violence is about power and control over another person. Here are some contributing factors:
- Emotional or psychological issues. Low self-esteem, insecurity, or untreated mental health challenges can fuel abusive behavior, though these do not excuse it.
- Substance abuse. Drugs and alcohol can increase aggression or lower inhibitions, making violence more likely.
- Cultural or social influences. Attitudes that tolerate sexism, rigid gender roles, or victim-blaming can enable abusive behavior.
- Stress and frustration. Financial struggles, unemployment, or other pressures may trigger violence, particularly when the abuser lacks healthy coping skills.
- Jealousy and possessiveness. Extreme jealousy can escalate into controlling and violent behavior toward a partner.
Defenses to Domestic Violence
Here are common defense strategies attorneys may consider:
- Lack of evidence. Prosecutors must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are no witnesses, medical records, or credible testimony, the case may be weak.
- False allegations. Sometimes accusations arise from anger, jealousy, custody disputes, or attempts to gain leverage in divorce or family court. A defense may focus on exposing inconsistencies or motives behind the claims.
- Self-defense. If the accused acted to protect themselves or others from harm, this can be a valid legal defense. Evidence of injuries or prior threats may support this claim.
- Alibi. If the accused was not present when the alleged incident occurred, providing proof of an alibi can be a strong defense.
- Uncooperative witness. Domestic violence cases often rely heavily on the victim’s testimony. If the alleged victim refuses to testify, it may weaken the prosecution’s case.
Contact Us Today
Relationships are tough, and sometimes emotions can run wild, leading to physical altercations and domestic violence charges.
These charges are often serious. A Fort Myers domestic violence attorney from Hollander & Hanuka can help you understand the charges against you and what to expect as the case against you moves forward. Fill out the online form or call (239) 332-3300 to schedule a consultation today.
Source:
ktar.com/national-news/domestic-violence-theft-charges-dropped-for-former-usf-football-coach-jim-leavitt/5749013/
