Berlin Activities Depot former employee indicted in child abuse case

Worcester County, Md. – A former gymnastics coach at the Berlin Activities Depot has been indicted on second-degree child abuse and other charges.

57-year-old Lionel Evans was arrested and charged after investigators and charging documents say he placed his hands around the neck of a 4-year-old while employed at the depot.

A preliminary hearing was originally set this morning in the case, but since the indictment was handed down this week, it was canceled. Evans has maintained his innocence, and Defense Attorney Thomas Maronick Jr. says video evidence will be the key in the case to prove it.

Maronick tells reporters, “These allegations have been devastating. Not only does he deny them, but the fact is, he’s on suspension as far as his association with USA Gymnastics now… So where does his future hold? Obviously, he wants to get past these charges and go back to what he does, really well, which is helping kids, and helping them grow. ”

Back in August, Owner Carmella Solito of the Depot disputed the abuse allegations in an email to the parents stating that the child in question tripped and fell as he was running away. They also showed multiple parents the same video, to prove their innocence as well. In an interview with reporters the Depot also stated they do not and will never condone any form child mistreatment.

Evans is scheduled in court for a hearing next month. We will be sure to keep you updated as the story unfolds.