Attorney Disputes Charges Against LCA Teacher/Softball Coach

Katie McDevitt, a teacher and softball coach at Loganville Christian Academy, was arrested by the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and charged with sexual exploitation of a minor. She is currently out on $7,500 bond. The arrest followed an investigation into inappropriate communication with a minor who is not an LCA student. The school notified parents via a letter, placing McDevitt on administrative leave immediately upon learning of the investigation.

Loganville Christian Academy confirmed that McDevitt was also a coach for the Georgia Strike travel team, and the alleged victim was a team member. The school did not share specific details with families at the time of the arrest, citing the sensitivity of the situation.

David Boyle, attorney for McDevitt, strongly disputes the allegations. He urges people to wait for the facts to emerge in court rather than forming opinions based on social media. McDevitt denies the accusations and looks forward to defending herself. Boyle noted that the arrest warrant is vague, failing to identify the alleged victim or describe the sexual offense.

McDevitt has been charged under Georgia’s Grooming a Minor statute, which took effect in July 2024. Boyle questions the circumstances of the accusation, suggesting the statute’s application may raise important legal considerations. The defense intends to examine the warrant’s sufficiency and the statute’s relevance to the alleged conduct.

Boyle emphasized that the case should concern anyone who volunteers to coach or mentor young athletes. He suggested that disagreements over playing time and team participation in competitive sports may have contributed to the accusation. McDevitt cooperated with investigators and surrendered her devices to help refute the allegations. Boyle stressed that a criminal accusation is not proof of guilt and that social media repetition does not establish facts.

The case highlights the importance of accountability and the need for careful scrutiny in matters involving minors. It also underscores the challenges of navigating legal and ethical responsibilities in youth ministry and sports coaching. As the legal process unfolds, the community is called to uphold justice, mercy, and the protection of the vulnerable.

Source: Read the original report