The Jersey City high school and college track coach is charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and criminal sexual contact after inappropriately touching a girl at a track meet, according to the Bureau. of the Ocean County Attorney.
Thomas Downes, 61, turned himself in to authorities in Toms River on Monday. The alleged incident occurred at the John Bennett Athletic Bubble in Toms River on February 12.
According to authorities, the minor, who was participating in a track meet at the facility, reported to her coach that an adult male had approached her and touched her inappropriately. The trainer reported the incident to police, and authorities later identified Downes as the individual in question.
At the time of the incident, according to authorities, Downes was the head coach of a girls’ track team at a high school in Jersey City. Downes has also directed the field programs at Jersey City University.
After turning himself in to authorities, Downes was processed and released on a summons pending a future court appearance.
Anyone who believes they have additional information regarding the investigation, or believes they may have been a victim, may contact Detective Alex Bromley of the Ocean County District Attorney’s Office at 732-929-2027 ext. 3271, or the Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau at 732-349-0150, ext. 1297.
–
