In 1994, former Miami Springs Middle School coach, Ronald Bach, “pleaded guilty to charges that he twice fondled a 14-year-old student after luring her into his house to video tape her.” Bach was 54 when he accepted the plea agreement.
As a kid growing up in Springs, I remember hanging out at the Rec Center and a couple of high school girls telling me they were going to leave and hang out at coach Bach’s house. I always thought that was weird. Why do young girls go hang out at an old dude’s home? Now we know why.
Some of you might be asking, “Why share this story after so many years?” Good question.
Well, the first reason is that back in 1994, MiamiSprings.com had not yet been created. The Internet was just getting started. In fact, we weren’t aware of the matter when it happened.
Two, back in the those days, these types of stories were kinda swept under the rug by local media. Fortunately, The Herald did report on it as you can see further below.
Three, and this is the most important one, it should serve as a cautionary tale to parents and teens. Just because he’s a coach or a teacher doesn’t mean they should automatically be trusted. Young girls visiting a single middle aged man’s home should ring alarm bells everywhere.
Note:Â If you read the clip further below, you’ll notice that as part of his guilty plea, he got to keep his Miami-Dade County Public Schools pension.
What do you think?Â
Do you remember when this happened? Or are you surprised by the news?
Read the clip from The Miami Herald below:
Article from Apr 28, 1994 The Miami Herald (Miami, Florida)
As Miami Springs celebrates its 100 Year Anniversary, we’re looking back at stories that shaped Miami Springs. Some stories are uplifting and inspirational. While others left lasting scars.
Some are a reminder of things we may have forgotten. While other stories, some may never have known.
We encourage residents to share their stories, anecdotes, pictures, and videos with us. Simply email us at History@MiamiSprings.com.
