by Baltimore County, MD – A shocking case has emerged involving Michael J. Pusateri, a 59-year-old Baltimore County softball coach, who has been arrested and charged with sexual abuse of a minor. Authorities allege that Pusateri sexually abused a 17-year-old female player, raising grave concerns about the safety of youth sports environments.
The arrest has sent ripples through the local sports community, prompting officials to emphasize the importance of safeguarding children participating in recreational activities.
Details of the Allegations and Investigation
According to police reports, the allegations against Pusateri stem from an incident on July 25 at Eastern Regional Park in Middle River, where he allegedly sexually abused a female softball player inside her vehicle. After the encounter, both left the scene separately.
The victim revealed to police that she felt scared and uncomfortable and was intimidated by Pusateri’s role as both her coach and her parents’ employer, which compounded her fear and uncertainty.
Investigations uncovered that Pusateri had been grooming the victim over several months. Evidence includes inappropriate text messages dating back to mid-March, with records showing at least five in-person meetings and a disturbing incident where Pusateri allegedly bit the victim’s neck. On June 13, he reportedly sent 37 explicit images to the minor via his work phone.
Following a July 28 report to authorities, detectives promptly commenced their inquiry, which also involved interviewing the victim’s mother. She disclosed knowing Pusateri for about five years through the softball league and recounted how Pusateri recruited her daughter and offered employment opportunities to both her and her husband.
“Pusateri had been grooming the victim for a very long time,” a detective involved in the case stated.
Response from Baltimore County Recreation and Parks
Pusateri had served as a coach for multiple teams, including Overlea Rec, Middle River Rec, Parkville Rec, and most recently at Kenwood High School. Despite passing a background check in February 2025, the recent allegations prompted immediate action.
The Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks issued a statement underscoring their commitment to the safety of all participants, especially young people. They clarified that while volunteer programs are managed by independent nonprofit recreation councils, the department assists with processing background checks.
- Pusateri was promptly removed from all volunteer activities upon the report of allegations.
- Baltimore County enforces a strict policy where any assault or abuse charge results in automatic disqualification from serving as a recreation volunteer.
- Authorities are actively seeking additional victims and encourage anyone with information to contact the Baltimore County Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit at 410-887-7720.
Read Also: Creepy California Serial Killer Allegedly Wore White-Faced Mask During Extensive Burglary Spree
School District’s Actions and Community Outlook
Kenwood High School Principal Catherine Smith notified parents via letter that Pusateri was last active as a volunteer coach during the spring season and has since been prohibited from accessing school property.
“These charges are disturbing and are a violation of our policies and core values,” Principal Smith expressed in her communication to families.
The community remains vigilant as the investigation continues, with many expressing concern for the victim and others who may have suffered in silence.
For further details on this developing story, visit the original report at CBS Baltimore.
Protecting Youth in Recreational Activities
This case highlights the critical need for continuous review and strengthening of background checks and safeguarding measures within youth sports and recreational programs. It also underscores the importance of creating safe environments where minors feel empowered to report abuse.
- Background checks, while vital, are not fail-proof and should be supplemented by ongoing monitoring.
- Education for coaches, parents, and young athletes on recognizing and reporting abuse can help mitigate risks.
- Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.
What Can You Do?
Anyone with information related to this case or similar incidents is encouraged to contact the Baltimore County Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit at 410-887-7720. Protecting children is a collective responsibility that demands community awareness and action.
What do you think about this case? Have you or someone you know been involved in local youth sports programs? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
