High school football coach Antwone Washington accused of sexually abusing underage student

Antwone Washington faces multiple charges including sexual abuse, child pornography, and statutory seduction.

Antwone Washington, a 45-year-old former high school football coach at Valley High School in Las Vegas, appeared in court on Wednesday, December 4, facing numerous serious charges, including sexual abuse, child pornography production, statutory sexual seduction, and kidnapping. 

The case stems from disturbing allegations that Washington sexually abused an underage student while filming the acts, which reportedly took place during his tenure at the school.

According to court documents, investigators discovered four videos showing Washington engaging in sexual acts with the girl, including one in which he allegedly urinated on her. Another video showed him raping the girl from behind while she was gagged, bound, and unconscious. One of the videos was reportedly filmed in Washington’s office, located in the boys' locker room at the high school.

The victim, referred to as “Jane Doe” in court, was between the ages of 14 and 16 when the abuse occurred. The relationship between Washington and the victim reportedly began earlier this year when he initiated contact with her through her boyfriend. The two connected on Instagram, which ultimately led to a sexual relationship. Washington is accused of taking explicit photos of the victim and other students, including one involving the girl wearing a thong.

During his court appearance, Washington confessed to engaging in sexual acts with the minor and acknowledged taking explicit photos of multiple students. He also revealed a disturbing "role-play" fetish, where he allegedly viewed the girls as his "daughters." The victim was not the only one involved in these acts; Washington’s confessions included details of his polygamous relationship with three other women.

In the court hearing, Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney William Rowles shared details of Washington’s confessions to Las Vegas Metro Police. Washington allegedly admitted to taking explicit photographs of several students and also referenced his role-play fetish, further revealing his disturbing behavior. Rowles emphasized Washington’s confession of inappropriate conduct, which included actions far beyond what might have initially been assumed.

The defense, led by Washington’s attorney, Tyler Gaston, argued that Washington had intended to serve as a mentor to the students and that the charges had been exaggerated. Gaston stressed his client’s strong ties to the community and his lack of a criminal history, requesting Washington’s release on his own recognizance. The defense also claimed there was no evidence of sexual assault, pointing to the teen’s relationship with her 16-year-old boyfriend’s father as the root cause of the investigation. Gaston further noted that the victim had initially been reluctant to identify Washington, which he argued suggested concern for his family’s well-being.

Despite the defense’s arguments, the prosecution has raised serious concerns about Washington’s position of authority at the school. Rowles stated that the defendant's role within the community made his actions even more egregious. "When someone violates the trust of their community in such a manner, it speaks volumes about their potential danger," he said.

Washington’s bail has been set at $100,000, though the prosecution has requested an increase to $500,000, citing the severity of the charges and the risk he poses to public safety. Washington remains under house arrest with restrictions on contact with minors and access to school properties. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 16, 2024, and further legal proceedings are expected.