New details on Chowchilla coach sex crimes

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Action News has uncovered new information about the two Chowchilla High School softball coaches arrested for sexual assault involving minors.

Edward Tovar and Earl Spomer not only coached at the high school level, but they are also involved with Chowchilla's youth league.

Based on a criminal complaint we obtained, we now know, there is one underage victim Tovar is accused of sexually abusing. As for Spomer, the district attorney's office has not filed any charges at this point. Even so, Spomer has decided to step down as president of Chowchilla's Youth Softball League.

Young girls between the ages of six and 14 can often be seen playing softball at the Sports and Leisure Park in Chowchilla. This is the home of the Chowchilla Youth Softball League.

Earl Spomer has served as the league's president for the past two years. He also coached two teams. But, immediately following his arrest on sexual abuse allegations, the league confirmed to Action News, Spomer resigned.

Parents declined to speak on camera. But at least one, raised concerns about whether the league or Chowchilla High School officials knew about the allegations before police.

Ron Seals is the district superintendant. He says the school did all the proper background checks on both suspects.

Ron Seals said, "It's very tough to handle because these are people involved with our community and it's quite shocking."

Administrators have since put both coaches on administrative leave. Meanwhile, Madera County District Attorney Michael Keitz says his office is still investigating the allegations against Spomer.

The criminal complaint against Tovar includes seven counts -- describing, among other things, how he allegedly exposed himself and forced sexual encounters with the victim.

The D.A.'s office decided to drop the kidnapping charge, saying they will only prosecute claims with sufficient evidence.

"A police agency can arrest a person based upon reasonable suspicion," said Keitz. "However, when we examine a case, we don't have the reasonable suspicion standard, which is a much lower standard then beyond a reasonable doubt."

Tovar also coached with the youth softball league. He resigned as well. He is on administrative leave from his job as a correctional sergeant at the Central California Women's Facility outside Chowchilla.

Get more Local »

chowchilla, madera county, crimetracker, local, shannon handy

• Comment Now
• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•