Protecting Young California Equestrian Athletes From Sexual Abuse

Young California equestrian athletes may be at risk for child sexual abuse. Recently, the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s commitment to protecting their athletes and being transparent with the backgrounds of their employees is in question. Young and vulnerable riders may have been put in various situations and in contact with individuals who have a questionable background related to child sexual abuse and misconduct.

For young California equestrian athletes who suffered harm due to sexual abuse at an equestrian facility, the U.S. Equestrian Federation could be liable for paying the damages that were sustained. Investigations into organizations like the U.S. Equestrian Federation can be conducted and should be when allegations of sexual abuse have been made. An attorney can help victims secure the financial compensation they are entitled to after they are abused. 

Our California child sexual abuse attorney at Beck Law P.C. is prepared and ready to assist you if you would like to explore your legal options for obtaining compensation due to child sexual abuse in California.

How Southern California Equestrian Centers May Have Endangered Young and Vulnerable Female Equestrian Athletes

Steve Milne, a renowned equestrian instructor in the Southern California area, is under a formal investigation due to allegations of potential misconduct. Milne has been an equestrian instructor at several Southern California horse facilities for many decades. Now, the U.S. Center for SafeSport is investigating Milne, who was fired by the Shea Center in late February. The Shea Center is an equestrian center that services individuals with disabilities in Orange County. Still, even after he lost his job and with limitations to coaching by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, he continued to conduct lessons and lead equestrian clinics.

This is not the first time that Steve Milne has been entangled in accusations of sexual misconduct. In the 1980s, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department interviewed him about an incident with a teenage girl.

While Steve Milne may have been a dangerous threat to equestrian athletes in California, John Manning could also pose a risk to young athletes. John Manning is a registered sex offender and was also sanctioned by the U.S. Center for SafeSport after he was convicted of criminal sexual abuse with minors. Yet, he is actively designing courses for many of the most elite horse shows in the country. Temecula Valley National is just one example associated with John Manning, where he could have been near young athletes. 

It is very concerning that both Milne and Manning, with their backgrounds, have been involved in equestrian operations. This is especially true since the young equestrian athletes and their parents, as well as show organizers may never have been made aware of these individuals’ past.

Individuals who have information related to sexual misconduct by either Steve Milne or John Manning are asked to connect with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

Speak to a California Child Sexual Abuse Attorney Today

For assistance with a child sexual abuse lawsuit in California or to have your abuse experience reviewed to see if you have a case, please do not delay reaching out to our California child sexual abuse lawyer at Beck Law P.C. by calling (707) 576-7175.