Courtney Johnson, a coach suspended by the U.S. Center for SafeSport for sexual misconduct, was observed coaching the Texas Storm 14U softball team in West Columbia, Texas.
Despite his suspension, which should have barred him from all USA Softball-sanctioned activities, Johnson was allowed to participate in practices and games at the Lake Jackson Girls Softball Association (LJGSA) fields, raising serious questions about child safety.
Johnson was arrested in March 2024 in Brazoria County for Indecent Assault under Texas Penal Code 22.012.
Following this arrest, he was temporarily suspended by SafeSport, pending further investigation.
As of August 14, 2025, SafeSport made the suspension permanent, adding probation to the restrictions, which explicitly prevent him from coaching or assisting in any USA Softball-sanctioned events.
However, eyewitness accounts and reports confirm that Johnson continued to coach young athletes despite these prohibitions, showcasing a disturbing lapse in enforcement.
Tino Salinos, the tournament director for LIGSA, reportedly knew of Johnson’s suspension yet allowed him to coach.
Similarly, Alex Jimenez, president of LJGSA, was fully aware of the disciplinary action but permitted Johnson on the fields.
Ed Guillen, the USA Softball District 27 commissioner, has been aware of Johnson’s case since March 2024 and has been criticized for failing to enforce SafeSport’s suspension.
These officials, who are responsible for protecting young athletes, have come under scrutiny for failing to fulfill their duties.
LJGSA’s own bylaws are explicit in prohibiting participation by individuals who are suspended.
Article III of the bylaws states that “all coaches, assistant coaches, and volunteers must pass a USA Softball-approved background check and maintain current Safesport certification. Anyone not cleared by SafeSport or USA Softball shall not participate in practices, games, or tournaments held on LJGSA fields.”
By allowing Johnson to coach, these officials not only violated SafeSport regulations but also disregarded the league’s own rules, leaving children exposed to potential harm.
Many social media users have emphasized that predators often manipulate and groom families, making it crucial for organizations to enforce suspensions strictly.
Agatha Espindola Sanchez, commenting on social media, warned that predators “will continue to hunt forever” unless adults take decisive action.
The problem with cases such as this one people are blinded by these monsters. They groom the parents to reach the child and this where things move forward. The predator will move on to make the child look as liar. Why? Because the charges were not harsh enough.
Agatha Espindola Sanchez
Other parents echoed this sentiment, criticizing those who ignored the suspension. Daniel Phillips wrote,
But Sunni Sproles he is such a good man and would never do those things that his accused of…….SMH Everyone of those people listed above should be ashamed of themselves.
Danel Phillips
While Heather Belcher remarked that even second-hand stories had left her uneasy about Johnson. She said,
I’ve never met this man, but don’t like him at all. Due to a story I’ve heard of years ago.
Heather Belcher
In West Columbia, the implications are serious. Parents are being called on to take action, not only to protect their children but also to demand structural changes that prevent similar failures in the future.
Until those in charge uphold SafeSport rules and enforce league bylaws consistently, the safety of young athletes will remain compromised.
