SICKLERVILLE, New Jersey — He was the coach students ran for. The one they looked up to on the track and the football field. Now, Joel Deanley Jr. is facing criminal charges that have shaken the Timber Creek High Regional School community to its core.
Deanley, 26, of Gloucester Township, was arrested Thursday after Camden County officials charged him with sexual assault and endangering a child.
What investigators found
Detectives say Deanley engaged in sexual activity with a female high school student between June and August of this year.
The victim told investigators the contact occurred three times over the summer. Deanley admitted to some of the acts, according to the criminal complaint.
He served as an aide at Timber Creek High Regional School. He was also head coach for boys and girls winter track, assistant football coach, and assistant for girls spring track.
School acts quickly
The moment charges were filed, the district moved fast.
Deanley was removed from all positions and barred from district property. School officials confirmed they are fully cooperating with law enforcement.
“The safety and well-being of our students remain the District’s highest priority,” the district said in a statement.
A community left shaken
For those who walked those same halls, the news hit hard.
“It’s kind of crazy considering I was on the track team and everything like that. It’s just, it’s unfortunate,” said Chace Pearson, a Timber Creek graduate.
Investigators say no other victims have been identified at this time — but the door remains open.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Todd Jarrell of the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit at 856-225-8479, or Detective Daniel Szovati of the Gloucester Township Police Department at 856-228-4500, ext. 3215. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online through CAMDEN.TIPS.
If you have seen or experienced anything involving this case, your information could matter more than you know — share what you know in the comments or reach out directly to investigators.