Massachusetts

Former Norwell Football Coach Indicted on Child Rape Charges

At the times of the assaults, the children were 11 and 13 years old.

A former Massachusetts youth football coach has been indicted on 18 counts of child rape charges, according to the Plymouth District Attorney's office.

Authorities said Derek Sheehan, 48, of Norwell, was indicted Friday by a grand jury. The 18 counts include five counts of aggravated rape of a child, 10 counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, and two counts each of intimidation of a witness and impersonating a police officer, according to the district attorney.

On Aug. 17, police executed a search warrant at Sheehan's home and seized several electronic devices that revealed evidence of child pornography. Authorities said a review of the devices showed hours of footage of Sheehan, on multiple dates, sexually abusing children who appeared to be asleep. At the times of the assaults, the children were 11 and 13 years old.

Friday's indictments allege Sheehan created false police reports and emails to convince his victim's parent that he had already been investigated and cleared of any wrongdoing.

Sheehan is currently in custody on related federal charges. It's unclear when he will face a judge or if he has an attorney.

Contact Us