Former SLMS coach charged in federal court for sex abuse

A former South Laurel Middle School coach already facing state charges of using a minor in a sexual performance is now facing federal charges.

William Trevor Goodson, 31, of Antioch, Tenn., was indicted on March 28, in London’s U.S. District Court. The indictment states that “On or about August 2023...and continuing until on or about Feb. 23, 2024, in Laurel County .....William Trevor Goodson did knowingly persuade, induce, entice or coerce an individual under the age of 18, using a means or facility of interstate commerce, to engage in sexual activity.” The indictment further states that such activity is a criminal offense, namely, “Sexual Abuse in the First Degree.”

If found guilty, Goodson could face a minimum of 10 years in prison but not more than a life sentence, as well as a $250,000 fine and a minimum of five years supervised release.

Goodson appeared in U.S. District Court last Friday, April 12, at which time he was granted a court-appointed attorney. Goodson entered a not guilty plea to the federal charge and a jury trial before Judge Claria Boom was set for June 11.

Records from the Laurel County Correctional Center show that Goodson is held without bond; however, Goodson was only held under the federal charges from April 10 to April 12 before being released.

Goodson was indicted by the Laurel County grand jury in March for first-degree sexual abuse, procuring or promoting use of minor by electronic means, first-degree unlawful transaction with a minor, illegal sex act, under 18 years, and use of a minor (under 18) in a sexual performance. He was held under $75,000 cash bond in the Laurel County Correctional Center from Mar. 2 until Mar. 22.

A federal indictment, however, supercedes a state indictment.

An indictment is an accusation only and does not imply guilt or innocence. Persons are considered innocent until proven guilty under state and federal law.