A former South Florida youth track coach has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing a 14-year-old athlete.
Darius Tremayne Lawshea, 51, was found guilty in February for crimes dating back to 2010 involving a student from Miami Carol City Senior High School. He had been a well-known figure as the head coach of the Miami Gardens Xpress Track and Field program, working with children and teens.
According to prosecutors, Lawshea abused the victim multiple times, including incidents in his car and at his apartment. The victim did not report the abuse for years, citing fear and the coach’s strong reputation in the community.
At sentencing, another woman came forward, describing similar grooming behavior and the lasting emotional trauma she experienced. She spoke about feelings of shame and the long journey to reclaim her life.
Judge Andrea Wolfson condemned Lawshea’s actions, calling them a severe betrayal of trust and a calculated manipulation of a vulnerable child. He was also designated a sexual predator.
In court, Lawshea expressed remorse and asked for leniency, but the judge imposed a lengthy sentence reflecting the gravity of the crimes.
The victim’s mother said the damage extended far beyond one individual, impacting multiple families and shattering trust within the community.
Authorities confirmed that additional cases involving Lawshea are still pending.
