South Jersey Cheerleading Coach's Husband Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Harrison Sparks Teen Squad Member

NJ Husband Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Cheerleading Squad Member; Wife Faces Charges

The husband of a South Jersey cheerleading coach has pleaded guilty to allegedly sexually assaulting a minor and will serve 10 years in state prison under a plea agreement. Harrison Sparks Cheerleading Coach Facing Charges as Husband Pleads Guilty to Sexually Abusing Squad Member

Sexual Abuse Allegedly Began When Squad Member Was 13

Investigators say the victim, a member of the Harrison Sparks cheerleading squad, reported that Michael Brown allegedly began abusing her in 2018, when she was just 13 years old. The assaults were said to have taken place at the Browns' home in Mantua, Gloucester County.

Cheerleading Coach Also Facing Sex Crime Charges

Brown's wife, Valerie, coached the Harrison Sparks squad — a position that gave her husband access to the victim. Authorities allege she was aware of the ongoing abuse. She is also facing criminal charges, and her case remains pending.

This story is developing. Additional details regarding Valerie Brown's charges are expected to be released by Gloucester County prosecutors.

The factual information above was sourced from 6abc.com as of June 22, 2026.

The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.

Do Victims of Youth Sports Sexual Abuse Have? A New Jersey Attorney Explains

When a cheerleader is sexually abused by a cheerleading coach or someone connected to a program, the criminal justice system is only part of the picture. Victims also have the right to take civil legal action — and many do not realize the full scope of options available to them. New Jersey sexual abuse attorney Ashley DiLiberto shares what victims and their families need to know about holding abusers and negligent organizations accountable.

Q: Can a victim of sexual abuse by a coach's spouse take legal action beyond the criminal case?

A: Absolutely. A criminal case and a civil lawsuit are two separate legal processes. A victim does not need to wait for a criminal conviction to file a civil claim. In a civil case, the standard of proof is lower, and the focus is on compensating the victim rather than punishing the offender.

Q: Could an organization like a cheerleading program be held liable if one of its coaches' spouses abused a minor?

A: Potentially, yes. If an organization or its representatives knew or should have known that a child was at risk and failed to act, they may share legal responsibility. Courts in New Jersey take a hard look at whether an organization had a duty to protect minors and whether that duty was breached.

Q: What types of compensation can a victim pursue in a civil lawsuit?

A: Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical and psychological treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term impacts on their quality of life. Every case is different, but the law recognizes that the harm caused by sexual abuse can last a lifetime.

Q: What should a victim do if they are considering legal action?

A: The first step is speaking with an attorney who handles sexual abuse cases. New Jersey has specific laws that affect filing deadlines, and waiting too long can affect a victim's options. A qualified attorney can review the situation confidentially and explain what legal paths are available.

Q: Is there any cost to speaking with a lawyer about a potential case?

A: Most sexual abuse attorneys, including myself, offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no fee unless we recover compensation for the client. No victim should feel that cost is a barrier to understanding their rights.

Your Story Matters — And So Do Your Rights

If you or someone you love was sexually abused by a cheerleading coach or their spouse, you do not have to face this alone. Attorney Ashley DiLiberto offers free, confidential consultations to victims and their families who want to understand their legal options. There is no obligation and no cost to call — only answers. Reach out today and take the first step toward getting the support and accountability you deserve.