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Pleasanton tennis coach arrested for child molestation

Original post made on Sep 2, 2008

The head tennis instructor at Castlewood Country Club has been arrested on multiple counts of child molestation and sexual abuse of children under the age of 14, Alameda County sheriff's spokesman Sgt. J.D. Nelson said today.

Read the full story here Web Link posted Tuesday, September 2, 2008, 3:17 PM

Comments (142)

Posted by Ray Lee
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 2, 2008 at 8:52 pm

1) I would hope this crime didn’t happen and no children were harmed.

2) If it did happen, then I hope the strongest punishment is given and all strength is wished for the children and families.

3) Serious question from a newer parent: How would a tennis instructor have gotten private access to somebody else’s children?


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 6:35 am


If this is true, why would people have waited so long to report it? On a related note, what kind of evidence do police need in order to arrest someone?


Posted by Ange
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:01 am

I have known Henry as a wonderful guy. I am truly sickened by these allegations.


Posted by Shocked
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:07 am

My kids have taken lessons w/Henry, and I can easily see where he had the open trust of parents and children alike. I would like to believe that the allegations are not true, but if they are, they sadly fit the stereotype of the trusted family friend who abuses...

On why it took "so long" to report - if these kids were 10ish in the 90s, then they are 20ish now. Most children who have been abused are terrified about coming forward about their experiences.

Lastly, I am pretty sure Henry has children of his own, and I believe that our hearts and prayers must really go out to them at this time. Regardless of the outcome, they are going to be horribly scarred by this event. They are in no way responsible for what Henry may (or may not have) done, but they are very definitely going to pay a price in the weeks ahead.


Posted by unbelievable
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:32 am

I have known Henry for 16 years, my children grew up playing tennis with him at the club. He personally coached my daughter threw hs, they are adults now and they can't believe this is even true. They have known him all their lives and when they come home they immediatley make time to go see him and play tennis. When would he ever have time to be completely alone with the kids? There is always someone around, especially those years, there was always someone in the tennis shack, on the courts, tons of people around, I find this so hard to believe. I just don't believe this to be true, he has 3 children of his own and he loves them, and was always great with the kids, that is why he had a huge tennis program, he loved teaching everyone, all ages and he made you feel great. He is a good man and if he didn't do this his life is ruined forever and if he did, his life is ruined for ever as his families. My heart goes out to him. I just can't believe he did this.


Posted by Reeling
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:40 am

I, too, did not believe that is was true - that it COULD be true. But I have heard that he has confessed. I didn't hear it from his own lips, but from someone close to the investigation, so I'm sort of having to accept that it is probably true. It just does not seem possible...


Posted by Stacey
a resident of Amberwood/Wood Meadows
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:53 am

This sort of reminds me of the Schumate case. Half the people will believe it to be true, half won't, and both halves will be vehement in their opposition.


Posted by Anonymous
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 8:54 am

I hope the police do a thorough investigation and make sure the evidence is there and the charges are true before destroying this man's life. Don't get me wrong, I have kids and I am all for punishing those who abuse/molest children, but I have also read many stories of people who are falsely accused by children whose "memories" later prove to have been manipulated by the adults around them. Many innocent people have gone to jail and then the truth comes out but it is too late. Likewise, many guilty people play the system well and get away with their crimes.

Please: all involved, from police to lawyers, do your job correctly and make sure you have valid accusations and evidence before you pursue charges against this person.


Posted by Doo Doo
a resident of Valley Trails
on Sep 3, 2008 at 9:33 am

I am surprised by the first set of post on this subject. I can see that this person is loved by the community very much. Unfortunately, it seems that he's a monster and preys on young children. As a tennis coach he has access to hundreds of children (after 16 years...thousands)... and he obviously didn't harm all of them. He only harmed the ones he wanted to. The fact that he was so charming and charismatic, makes him even more of a monster. I read alot of "if he's guilty" and alot of concern for HIM? I am not too close to the case, but I know that if something is reported to the police by multiple victims and they do an investigation....and THEN they make an arrest, then usually there is overwhelming evidence. In this case there is multiple victims and accounts, and a possible confession. The man is guilty, regardless of his popularity.
I understand that you people aren't defending him....but the fact that your doubting the victims (which you ARE DOING!)...is horrible and they deserve your support. The monster in question will be dealt with. But PLEASE.... lets not sit here NOW and talk about "his situation"...or his problems.....
Lets work on getting the molesters out of Pleasonton Sports. (Wasn't there a gymnastics coach awhile back that did similar things...?)


Posted by Concerned
a resident of Ironwood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:17 am

Doo Doo - innocent until proven guilty? Do you know what the word "alleged" means?

I agree the situation sounds as if he is guilty, but let law enforcement and the courts do their jobs.


Posted by Doo Doo
a resident of Valley Trails
on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:32 am

Concerned--Guilt has nothing to do with the courts!! If he touch or harmed those kids in ANY WAY...then he's guilty from that point, NOT ONLY IF A COURT FINDS HIM GUILTY. I'm not crazy, theres going to be a trial and lawyers..media coverage..the whole nine yards.
All I want people to know is that regardless of lawyers and judges...public opinion ..and all the details... if he touched those children, then he is GUILTY.
Even if he has a great lawyer and he pleads to lesser charges, he is still GUILTY... Lets remember that "in a court of Law ...you will only find the Law, not justice...."


Posted by Concerned
a resident of Ironwood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:57 am

Doo Doo - you need to brush up on the concepts of our justice system and presumption of innocence


Posted by Ray Lee
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:27 am

Doo Doo must be right. There is enough information in news reports and rumors to thoroughly analyze this situation while sipping our coffee in our kitchens at home. Who needs the justice system, it's just a bunch of laws. I'll one up him, let's just do pay-per-view and have folks call in to a 1-900 number to determine guilt or innocence and instant punishment on live tv. But until then, Doo Doo's read all about it and has solved this case, so we can end this now.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 12:28 pm


SAD...

If there is reason to believe that a minor has been sexually abused, REPORT to the police.

It seems to me that Plutonia has scads of resident enablers? Hmmmmmmmmmmmm...don't be surprised if other respectable citizens are involved.

Parents: Have your children tested for HIV, Std's and Hepatitis asap.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR CHILDREN ALONE IN THE PRESENCE OF TRUSTED ADULTS....NEVER!

DON'T BE SURPISED IF "HENRY" TOOK PHOTOS AND POSTED THEM ONLINE.

INCIDENTALLY, YOUR CHILDREN WILL SUFFER FOR THE REST OF THE LIVES...NOT JUST THE NEXT FEW WEEKS...THEY WILL SUFFER FOREVER.

IF THE COUNTRY CLUB DIDN'T KNOW THAT THIS WAS HAPPENING, THEY SHOULD HAVE. THEY ARE EQUALLY LIABLE.

SAD SAD SAD...


Posted by aaron
a resident of Highland Oaks
on Sep 3, 2008 at 12:34 pm

the fact they didn't know doesn't suprise me. there's alot about people you wouldn't know. but the fact is i hope they fry that bastard. the question is how many this actually happend to. i would encourage anyone this has happend to to step up. sick bastard


Posted by Anonymous
a resident of Golden Eagle
on Sep 3, 2008 at 1:06 pm

My friends and I have taken tennis lessons from Henry for over 10 years and I am shocked by this allegation. We grew up spending summers and school day afternoons with him. None of us believe this to be true and we all stand by him. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his 3 children. You are innocent until proven guilty and until we see some plausible evidence we believe Henry is innocent.


Posted by Concerned
a resident of Ironwood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 1:23 pm

Cholo commments are ignorant and despicable...


Posted by Ray Lee
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 1:39 pm

I find it sickening that those who don't have any REAL knowledge of the case are ready to lock up or torture someone so easily.

This lynch mob mentality looks like acts of great hysteria from the recent past:
Web Link

Get a grip! We all hate REAL child abusers, duh. Let the professionals and families examine the case. Making judgments of guilt or innocence from a few lines in an article is just plain IGNORANT.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 1:57 pm

The rape of minors is tragic.

If there is REASON TO BELIEVE that a child has been sexually abused, REPORT YOUR CONCERNS TO THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY. All children have a right to thrive.

IT IS WELL KNOWN THAT CHILDREN THAT HAVE BEEN SEXUALLY ABUSED SUFFER THEIR ENTIRE LIVES. ESPECIALLY WHEN TRUSTED ADULTS ARE INVOLVED; IT IS MORE DIFFICULT TO MOVE ON AS MANY IGNORANT ADULTS MIGHT SUGGEST.

A complete medical exam and working closely with the parents will go a long way to help molested children heal. Hopefully, all of the survivors will inform the police if they were photographed by Henry. AS I STATED, DON'T BE SURPRISED IF ADDITIONAL ARRESTS ARE MADE.


It's not unusual for pedophiles to photograph children unclothed or partially clothed and to share the images with fellow perpetrators.
I only hope that this did not happen. Otherwise, the images will NEVER be taken off line. They usually remain forever.

PARENTS CAN NEVER BE OVERLY PROTECTIVE OF THEIR CHILDREN. ESPECIALLY AT THIS TIME IN AMERICA. IN AMERICA, THE SEXUAL MOLESTATION OF CHILDREN HAS REACHED EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS.

THE COUNTRY CLUB SHARES RESPONSIBILITY FOR WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO INNOCENT CHILDREN. IF THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING, THEY SHOULD HAVE KNOWN. TRUST YOUR CHILDREN TO TELL THE TRUTH. IF THEY ARE LISTENED TO AND BELIEVED FOR TELLING THE TRUTH, THEY WILL BE EMPOWERED. GIVE THE CHILDREN THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT.

AS FOR CONCERNED, GO CROW AT SOMEDOBY ELSE...LOOOOOOOZER...TEE HEE HEE, TEE HEE HEE...


Posted by Doo Doo
a resident of Valley Trails
on Sep 3, 2008 at 2:12 pm

I feel like I'm taking CRAZY pills...
AGAIN... I am shocked that most people on here feel this way. Ray Lee...you are just NAIVE.... We're not talking about "what" lawyers and investagators can prove (from 10-15 years ago). We are talking about a guy who the community obviously adored, and now when the victims are mature enough and strong enough to come forward, they are met with disbelief and doubt.
Just so I'm clear how the legal system works...in your world Ray Lee. If I punch you in the face and then obtain an outstanding lawyer...and I get the charge dropped or changed...am I still guilty of punching you in the face??? If you want to discuss the justice system and how easily it can be corrupted and manipulated...then we can do that... since your definition of guilt and innocent depends so much on the outcome of court cases..... I saw that you actually used the term "REAL child abusers", are those just the ones found guilty in a court of law, or does that include all of the child abusers that avoid being caught???
And ANONYMOUS.... yeah, you stay anonymous... Just because he didn't touch you doesn't mean anything. There could be many reason why he attacked the others, and left you alone.... you know that....


Posted by Deeply sad for all
a resident of Foothill High School
on Sep 3, 2008 at 2:50 pm

I am a member of Castlewood and my daughter took tennis lessons with Henry. I am a parent of a child that was sexually molested and I was a victim as a child myself. I identify with the girls that have come forward. I know how they feel. I know how their parent’s feel. I am overwhelmed with sadness for these innocents and also for Henry's innocent children.

The girls who have come forward need our care and our love and support and our trust. It is not for us to question their veracity.

We need to also have faith in law enforcement and their investigation. Based on the experience of my son, the police and trained specialists in children’s sexual victimization thoroughly and sensitively investigate. They do not rush to judgment without doing a thorough due diligence where they speak to the children/youth who report the molestation, the parents, witnesses, the accused etc. All this is done with the utmost sensitivity to the damage and potential additional damage to the child who reported the molestation.

I feel torn because one of the things that I hold so dear about our country is that we are innocent until found guilty. This makes me deeply troubled that the Alameda Country Sheriff's department has released such incriminating information to the press. It seems that Henry has been convicted in the news.

I am troubled with myself if Henry is found to be guilty whether by confession or by the legal system because there was nothing in his demeanor to have caused me to feel at all uncomfortable with him interacting one-on-one with my daughter. My daughter's experience was nothing but positive with Henry as her tennis teacher. But she was older than 14 and old enough and bold enough that she would not be a molester's first choice as a victim.

I agonize that these children may have carried all the horrible feelings associated with their molestation all alone inside for 10 or more years. My understanding is that molester’s don’t usually molest only in a 5 year time frame but rather do so habitually. As an adult, I wish I had had the strength to tell someone of my molestation but it took me over a decade to confide in an adult. It took my son over two years to tell his older sister he had been sexually victimized. We can ask why the information about Henry took so long to come to light but the time lag to me is understandable.

Lastly, I think that those who have been close to Henry who have posted comments expressing that they “can’t believe Henry did this” should not be criticized. I don’t think that they are expressing that those who have come forward with allegations are untruthful but are instead try to say that based on their personal experiences; they simply cannot reconcile the thought that the Henry they know could be capable of such horrendous actions.


Posted by concerned
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 2:50 pm

CHOLO; what if I said on this blog that you abused me. I can go to the police and say you abused me, it is your word against mine, or is the court of opinion here that you should fry... my word against you. I believe that you abused someone else and I report you, court of opinion says you did it and you should fry,, is that fair, should you get a fair trial, should all the facts come out or should we just tie you up and hang you because it is your court of opinion. think that justice will show the truth, but we live in America and we are all innocent until proven guilty,, I think I am pretty sure that is what it says,, Cholo,,, you have too much time on your hands,,,


Posted by gmc
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 3:12 pm

Can Cholo be charged with abusing our intelligence?


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 3:18 pm

Trust your children to tell you the truth and they will be happier and healthier human beings. Children deserve the respect of adults and believing them is a good way to demonstrate your faith that they are honest.

This is about individuals having made credible accusations. Otherwise, Henry would not have been arrested without cause.

When it comes to sexual molestation of children, nobody is a citizen above suspicion. All racial/ethnic groups, social class, professional/nonprofessionals commit sexual crimes against children and vulnerable adults. It is across the board.

Don't waste your breath "concerned", you're way too silly for words! You haven't answered my question: Is it eating you up that an immigrant to the USA is more knowledgeable that you on this topic? Fess up...and I mean it!!!






Posted by Mom of 3
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 3:18 pm

Thank you "Deeply sad.." for your comments. I agree wholeheartedly with everything you said. I am a member of Castlewood and have known Henry to be a wonderful individual. The allegations or shocking to me. I too have faith in our judicial system and will wait to see what happens. I am deeply saddened for his children and of course the brave girls who came forward. My prayers are with them all. I think it is a wakeup call for all parents, we really cannot be too careful about who spends time with our children. Thank you again for your reasonable and sensitive comments. We needed that!!


Posted by Pro-Law
a resident of another community
on Sep 3, 2008 at 3:29 pm

The police can't and wouldn't just go around arresting someone (especially for a high-profile crime) just because they feel like it. Police need what is called probable cause in order to arrest a person. I highly doubt the police would put their careers on the line and risk huge lawsuits just to arrest a person on these types of charges for fun.

Obviously no one will ever actually know all of the facts to this case, but in general (not this case specifically) there is a huge difference between guilty in court and being actually guilty as Doo Doo said.

On a side note, absent a confession I think it would be difficult for this case to be proved in a court setting if he in fact did do it (but we of course do not have any of the evidence in front of us). It is tough enough to prove cases in court which happened a couple years ago.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 4:26 pm

PROFILE OF PEDOPHLE:


Web Link


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 4:29 pm

Pro-Law, the alleged events didn't take place "a couple of years ago". The article referred to something that may have happened a decade ago.

On a completely different note, what is to prevent a couple of people from saying "I was abused by so-and-so 10 years ago" and making up the details? Now I am not suggesting that happened, but merely playing devil's advocate. What would prevent this guy from getting hanged in the court of public opinion? Does anyone with some legal experience know what kind of evidence the police would look for in a situation like this to make an arrest? With the alleged events having taken place so long ago, I would imagine it would be difficulty to determine a person's whereabouts at the time.




Posted by Ed
a resident of Pleasanton Heights
on Sep 3, 2008 at 4:44 pm

Cholo,
If your so knowledgeable on this subject and so many others, why is it so many disagree with you? It has nothing to do with your immigration status, but rather the hardline, biased positions you take.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 4:53 pm

If you show up at the courthouse tomorrow, you will learn a bit more about this case. It is far from over. Henry will have his day in court and so will the survivors.

Hopefully, other victims will come forward who were recently abused and point the finger.

I have a feeling that somebody is going to the BIG HOUSE!

If he has already pleased guilty, he may be in the process of trying to cut a deal with the DA?

Anyway, I'm glad that Henry is off the streets and behind bars.

If found guilty, do this make Henry an illegal?





Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 4:58 pm

ED...TYPOS OR JUST POOR ENGLISH? hahahahahahahahahahahhahhahahaha...


Posted by concerned
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 5:23 pm

Cholo,, you insult the intellligence of the rest of us. Your english is insulting as well. We are all here trying to figure out if this is true you only care about a guilty assumption. By the way, we really don't care if you are an immigrant or not. If you are a US citizen you, being an immigrant, should most of all, want the justice system of innocence before guilt to be the rule.
I just have a hard time thinking this could be true. I pray it is not and if it is true, I pray for the healing of those girls. I just can't fathom over hundreds of times??????


Posted by anonamus
a resident of Foothill Knolls
on Sep 3, 2008 at 6:10 pm

henry is a good man with a bad illness


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 6:39 pm

Does the truth really matter at this point?

Allegations have been made and Henry is incarcerated. It's probable that the victims provided credible evidence. The PT police are highly trained professionals and they know exactly what they are doing. They would not have arrested Henry without cause. They are NOT the Keystone Cops as some of you seem to believe.

I was not aware that you are a spokesperson for "the rest of us" "concerned".

I'm not struggling to "figure out if this is true..." Allegations have been made leading to the arrest and incarceration of Henry, a resident of Plutonia.

If there are other survivors, please contact the police and file a report asap. What is known about child molesters is that they molest many children over a period of time. Rarely is it a matter of a single isolated incident of abuse.

It's my impression that despite your "hard time thinking this could be true" is energy wasted. Attend the court hearing tomorrow and perhaps more information will be disclosed to help you resolve your conflict.

Do not assume that other responsible adults were not involved. The wheels of justice grind slowly, there is more to come.

Concerned, I think that it's eating you up that I not only speak ENGLISH as well as you, I speak several languages equally well. hahahahahahahahaha.....eat your heart out.

Incidentally, if in your last post you are offering me a partial apology, I accept!

ps This is not a case of immigrants guilty. It's about a home grown American citizen!














Posted by Ed
a resident of Pleasanton Heights
on Sep 3, 2008 at 6:46 pm

Cholo,
Another biased opinion lacking knowledge.
Ed


Posted by Ed
a resident of Pleasanton Heights
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:17 pm

Cholo,
Read and try to understand what I actually stated. I never blamed anything on illegal immigrants. Once again, you are demonstrating your biased opinion. I accept your apology.


Posted by ANONYMOUS
a resident of Carriage Gardens
on Sep 3, 2008 at 7:23 pm

stupid


Posted by concerned
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 3, 2008 at 8:47 pm

if we all ignore cholo maybe he will go away


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 3, 2008 at 9:13 pm

HENRY IS THE FACE OF EVIL.

PARENTS: Talk to your children, listen and believe what they tell you.

If you don't want to understand the harm that innocent children suffer when they are abused by trusted adults, then don't. However, those of us who do understand the gravity of the situation, will act accordingly with or without your approval.

Slavery, pimps, johns, murder, alcohol, drugs, noisy hogs, a gymnastics teacher/rapist, a Catholic priest that hangs out in toilets letting it all hang out in front of a vice cop, and now Henry.....wake up Plutonians.

Plutonians have been taken hostage by legals!

Make it sane again if you can...


Posted by asdf
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 9:36 am

I know Henry and until i see hard evidence to the contrary, i have complete trust in his innocence. i just won't believe he did this.

and to clear any rumors: he definitely has NOT confessed!!! that is just a vicious rumor. please don't believe everything you hear.


Posted by u_r_crzy
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 9:45 am

Dear ASDF, I would like to make you a wager then. A BET. If he's found innocent on these charges, I'll move out of Pleasanton for good. I mean it. My family and all. But I want you to do the same, if he's found guilty then YOU move out of Pleasanton. Is it a deal? Are you THAT sure? If your so sure about you FRIEND, then it should a no brainer. You see, if he's found guilty, then we don't need people like him or YOU around here.


Posted by Pro-Law
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 9:51 am

Qwery,

In my post I wasn't saying this specific event(s) happened a couple years ago. I was saying in criminal cases in general it is difficult to prove cases which are reported even just a couple years after the crime had been committed. I was implying it would be even more difficult to prove this particular case which allegedly happened a decade+ ago. If this case does go to trial I imagine it would be difficult to prove beyond a reasonable doubt (unless they of course they have damning evidence such as a confession, pre-text phone call with admission, other recordings, etc - which they may or may not have). In general these types of cases are made on what the defendant says or has said on his own accord directly to law enforcement or indirectly through other means.

Sounds like we are on the same page Qwery - just wanted to clarify.


Posted by asdf
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:09 pm

u r crazy:

i have heard a 1st hand account of a conversation that occured with henry and a person that went to visit him. henry said that he never made any admissions. one of the girls who is accusing him confronted him in the middle of a tennis mixer that henry was managing. he said he had no idea what she was talking about but she was so persistent and he had to continue with the mixer he finally said something like, "whatever i did, i'm sorry" just to get her off his back.

i'm not saying this is true...henry could be making that up. but it does make me wonder how much the media and police are twisting his words. I was merely saying I'd like to witness his confession for myself before passing judgement.


Posted by Concerned parent
a resident of Ruby Hill
on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:10 pm

My neighbor and her children have taken lessons form Henry for many years. She doesn't understand how ANY child would have ever been left alone with him for these accusations to have taken place? She has never left her children with him in over 10 years.

Does anybody have any idea how that could have happened? Every lesson was ON THE court, not in the locker room.

Each lesson had multiple children and parents present. The courts are in full view from the clubhouse, golf shop and restaurant.

Now if any parents "left" their children with him on a one-on-one basis (ie. private lessons), while they either left the premisis , or while they "socialized" (Euphmisim for getting plastered)for "hours" in the club......that would be a different story. Don't the parents have any culpability in not maintaining the proper safeguards and supervision necessary? That type of dereliction of parenting is hard to fathom.

Please understand, I'm not justifying the allegations, just trying to understand the circumstances that could possibly lead to this type of alleged tragedy; so that we may all be better informed and aware in the future. After all it's ultimately about the childrens' safety first, isn't it?


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:31 pm

I took lessons from Henry from ages 11-to about 16. I am 19 now and it is so hard to believe these accusations. I agree when people say when does he have time with children alone? Most lessons he had were group. There are ALWAYS many people at the club, including other instructors. Even in the tennis shop there were people running around. I do not see how he could have had time to do this. I feel so sorry for Henry. He is a great guy and my heart goes out to his 3 children too. Does anyone know the latest? I believe he had a hearing yesterday but there is no new information anywhere.


Posted by info
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:35 pm

VBB

yes, his hearing was yesterday. he didn't have time to get a lawyer before the hearing, so he hasn't made a plea. from what i've heard that's pretty much all that happened at the hearing. the judge gave him until friday to get a lawyer


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 1:26 pm

Info
Thanks a lot. Do you know what would happen if he was found guilty?
You're probably the only one I know who has any information.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 1:26 pm

Info
Thanks a lot. Do you know if those rumors are true? about him confessing? Do you also know what would happen if he was found guilty?
You're probably the only one I know who has any information


Posted by info
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 1:36 pm

VBB

he hasn't officially confessed, but police do say they have incriminating tapes. this is just what i've heard so don't take my word for it. i'm sure there are a lot of rumors going around.

and i have no idea what would happen if he's found guilty. i'm guessing several years in prison.

i took tennis from henry too and i sincerely hope that these accusations are not true. the evidence is stacking up against him though.


Posted by Arlene
a resident of Vintage Hills
on Sep 4, 2008 at 1:36 pm

This article says the police have tape recordings that contain incriminating admissions....




Tennis instructor charged in sex abuse of girls




Tennis teacher faces sexual abuse charges


Sophia Kazmi


Valley Times


Article Last Updated: 09/03/2008 11:28:28 PM PDT






PLEASANTON — A 62-year-old tennis instructor at Castlewood Country Club was charged Wednesday afternoon with sexually abusing at least three young girls during the late 1990s, authorities said.




Henry John Germain of Dublin stood silently behind the glass separating jail inmates from the Pleasanton courtroom as Judge Hugh Walker read the sexual child abuse felony charges that authorities said occurred from 1996 to 2001.




The girls, ages 9 to 12 and his students at the time, are now women in their 20s.




Germain, who did not enter a plea, was arrested Monday by Alameda County Sheriff's deputies at the country club.




According to court documents, two of the women, working with police, secretly recorded a conversation they had with Germain after confronting him on the club's tennis courts.




When one of the women told him how the abuse had affected her life, he told her was sorry for all the things he had done to her.




"Germain made several admissions and apologies for sexually abusing (Jane) Doe #1," the report stated.




"His statements were very incriminating and help confirm Doe #1, Doe #2 and Doe #3 allegations."




The sheriff's office received letters written by the three women, who all took lessons around the same time at the country club, describing the alleged abuse, stating they didn't want it to happen to anyone else.




The accusations ranged from inappropriate touching to pinning one girl in a corner at Germain's home and touching her while playing a pornographic video.




One of the women said she remembered Germain telling her that she was pretty and she deserved the abuse.




At least one victim said the abuse occurred almost daily.




Germain has no criminal record or other complaints against him about his dealing with children.




When he was interviewed by detectives, he said he inappropriately touched children, but denied touching them sexually, according to court documents.




He told detectives he thought the two women were attractive when they were children, but didn't do anything because he knew it was wrong.




Detectives say more victims may be out there. Germain remains on a no-bail status at Santa Rita county jail in Dublin and he is forbidden to have contact with the two victims deputies have talked to so far, as well as anyone under age 18 without appropriate adult supervision.




"It is very possible there will be additional charges," said Deputy District Attorney Ronda Theisen.




Investigators ask possible victims to call the sheriff's office's anonymous tip line at 510-667-3622, Sgt. Raymond Kelly at 510-667-3657 or Detective Rick Gonzales at 510-667-4906.




Posted by anonymous
a resident of Valley View Elementary School
on Sep 4, 2008 at 3:33 pm

Web Link


Posted by Shots
a resident of Canyon Creek
on Sep 4, 2008 at 3:36 pm

Use of foreign objects on girls 9 - 12 -- Web Link


Posted by SEP
a resident of Southeast Pleasanton
on Sep 4, 2008 at 3:46 pm

I can't understand how anyone could sexually abuse a child .... but it happens.

I can't understand how anyone could falsely accuse someone of a crime ... but it happens.

At this point we know a crime has occurred, and the only victims that we can be 100% confident of, are Henry's children.

I have known Henry for a long time. He has a very friendly and out going personality. It is one of the things that made his business successful. When you meet Henry, he will shake your hand (or put his hand on your shoulder), look you straight in the eyes, and talk to you with a big smile on his face. He is a teacher who favors positive reinforcement over negative criticism. And I think he is a person who would attempt to provide comfort by apologizing for things he is not responsible for.

His (supposed) admission of guilt sounds a bit like entrapment to me. I don't know the accusers, but I know Henry.

In the absence of "real" information, I am going to trust my judgment (based on years of knowing him) and believe Henry is innocent.


Posted by Doo Doo
a resident of Valley Trails
on Sep 4, 2008 at 4:24 pm

SEP...you are WEAK. I mean that literally, you are a weak person...and so are all of the other enablers. You know, the people who "can't believe" this monster did those things. Why aren't you publically supporting the child molester? Why aren't any of you "Henry People" there ...talking to the newspaper and show that there is an enormous fan base for this child predator. (as I found here on this web-site). The reporter said that there were people gathering at the courthouse (friends and family) and NOBODY wanted to comment. Don't you think that shows something. (you probably wouldn't)...
All I'm saying is that this little outlet of coverage has produced tons of "Henry supporters", yet nobody will go on record to defend this monster...not even his own friends and family.... Regardless of the charges, if you are a supporter of the vicious abuser...then don't do it anonymously.
Maybe, if enough of you people get together and cheer for him in "crowds of people" outside the jailhouse... just maybe the normal people of Pleasanton will forget that this pedophile harmed these girls for the rest of their lives. Those poor kids might be OK, but they will never be the same as they would be...had they not be ATTACKED by HENRY JOHN GERMAIN....
think about it


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 5:00 pm


Playing devil's advocate here, what would prevent a couple of people (who disliked Henry for whatever reason) from making up a story together and going to the police with "evidence"?


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 4, 2008 at 5:34 pm

Henry was arrested and incarcerated for Just Cause. The Judge has decided that Henry will not be allowed to post bail at this time. That may change after he finds legal representation.

An unsuspecting community is frequently shocked when a popular individual is arrested for the crime of sexual abuse of minors. It is disturbing to have to come to grips with the accusations and what you know about the accused. It is a painful process and injurious to everybody involved, family, friends, victims, etc.

Plutonia is mourning. You may not have known Henry as well as you thought. It may be that Henry will unfold gradually and what you learn will be even more difficult to manage.

I believe the accusers. I have faith that the PT Police Department and the Judge know what they are doing. Time will tell.

This the kind of incident that may cause some Plutonians to do some very serious soul searching. Justice will be done.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 4, 2008 at 5:36 pm

Perpetrators are repeaters so I believe that there are many more victims. Please come forward. Justice will be done.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 6:08 pm


I know what some of you mean when you say how can you support him, hes a molester and so on, but still you need to put yourself in those shoes. When you've known an individual for so long, it's hard to believe that it may be true. I think we all need to wait and see what happens. He did admit to somethings, but nothing sexual. I think if he did do it, he would completely deny everything. I think what he is saying is the truth, but of course I can't be sure.

Doo Doo
How do you know no one is behind him? Also, they aren't looking for people who think he's innocent, they are looking for people who might have also been molested.


Posted by anon parent
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 6:14 pm

To SEP:
I quote you--
"In the absence of "real" information, I am going to trust my judgment (based on years of knowing him) and believe Henry is innocent."
What are you thinking? Do you read about how every time a coach or teacher or priest is found guilty of molesting children everyone around them "can't BELIEVE it, he was such a WONDERFUL guy". That's part of their criminal behavior. They are sociopaths, they have no conscience, they fear no retribution because people like you can't believe they are not innocent. True crime author Ann Rule worked closely with Ted Bundy -- while he was murdering people -- and she never caught on to him. She had already researched and written many crime stories but she thought Bundy was just who he pretended to be. Perhaps if people had looked beyond his sociopathic behavior there would be a few dozen young women still alive.
Neither you nor I nor many professionals trained to see it can know for certain of the guilt or innocence of a sociopath. Good forensics and investigations are what to believe not your misguided desire to "believe Henry is innocent".

Cholo, for the record I take back all of my bad thoughts about you. On this issue you are dead nuts on it.


Posted by hmmm
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 7:42 pm

for those of you that still believe or hope for his innocence, it is important to show support for him at hearings and such. a hearing will be held tomorrow at 9 am here in pleasanton.


Posted by its me
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 8:32 pm

henry did not do it.
i was there at the time of the arrest when he came out or the tennis shop. he is not that kind of man. i have known him for 14 years.
these girls have made it up about him and it is terrible

i just cant beleive it


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:12 pm

Hmm

I would like to go. Can you just go in?? Or how does it work?


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:33 pm

Also, in the article it says 1:30 p.m. Is it 9 or 1:30?


Posted by anonymous
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:10 pm

How adults accomodate the perpetrator and increase the harm to the child victim: Web Link


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 12:27 am

How does anyone know that is really did commit these acts and its not some kind of smear tactics akin to the salem witch trials?


Posted by Marie
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 8:19 am

The girls where wired by sheriffs dept when they confronted Henry and he admitted it. They have his admission on tape! This is not a witch hunt. Non of want to believe this about Henry but he has said he did it.


Posted by Doo Doo
a resident of Valley Trails
on Sep 5, 2008 at 8:43 am

Qwerty.... thats freaking brilliant! I don't think anyone has thought of that, you know the witnesses making up the story. I know its every girls DREAM to be known as a molestation victim. I think your right on, I can see a group of twenty year old women discussing how to accomplish their goals in life, and coming up with a "game plan" for life, planning families and their education...... and they all came to the conclusion that- if they are victims of a pedophile 15 years ago...theres no telling how GREAT their life would be. I can't believe your the only one to see the TRUTH... that these girls are putting there names on police documents and swearing to the facts under oath, and getting their own life history torn apart with a fine tooth comb, and having their character questioned....They get all of that FUN ...and eventually ....hopefully ...their names will be famous, so ALL OF PLEASANTON can point and whisper when they walk by....Those girls are doing well right about now...you know...
Qwerty.... I hope you put more thought into your comments before you go on this site and defend a child molesting monster...It doesn't matter one bit if you knew him, and you don't think he did it. The evidence stacked up until the police HAD to arrest him....for the saftey of OTHERS...
Thanks Pleasanton PD.... My two daughters are just alittle bit safer today...
Qwerty... just between me and you... People are getting really tired of ignorant people like yourself trying to say nice things about a pedophile that attacked girls in our small town... just FYI


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 8:59 am

Doodoo,

If you will read my earlier posts, you will see that I am playing devil's advocate and CLEARLY said on a number of occasions "What evidence would the police need in order to proceed".
Don't be so quick to be so accusatory. Keep your emotions under control. We don't need more people like cholo in here. And by the way, I wasn't saying anything nice about the "alleged" child molester. As I mentioned previously, I am playing devil's advocate to generate a discussion about the legal aspects of the case. If you read all the posts in this thread you will see that there are plenty of people saying nice things about Henry so don't pin that on me. Read the posts, and put some thought into your own comments instead of jumping to conclusions about what people's statements mean.

keep your emotions under control. Participate in the discussions in a civil and thoughtful manner. If you cannot, then stay out of the thread.






Posted by Doo Doo
a resident of Valley Trails
on Sep 5, 2008 at 9:08 am

Sorry Qwerty.... Too many cups of coffee this morning (and I feel really appalled by the way people are "refusing" to accept the facts)...
I apologize again and will let you guys talk...
see you next topic...


Posted by marie
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 9:09 am

Just an FYI all of you thanking the Pleasanton PD, Castlewood uses the Alameda County Sheriffs dept not Pleasanton PD So please give credit where credit is do!


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 5, 2008 at 9:38 am

Henry was arrested and incarcerated for just cause.

It's to be expected that framing your disbelief/defense of Henry is based upon your experience. Fortunately, this case is in the hands of the court and justice will be done.

Many Plutonians are in mourning and disbelief. Keep an open mind and prepare yourselves to understand even what might seem in the moment to be unbelievable. Whenever children are sexually abused by adults, there is great pain and suffering.

Know and trust that you children are telling you the truth.







Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 5, 2008 at 9:39 am

Correction: Know and trust that your children are telling you the truth.


Posted by hmmm
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:30 am

VBB

i'm sorry i didn't see your post in time. yes it was at 9 this morning. they hadn't had time to gather all of the facts, though, so another hearing will be held next wednesday at 1030. i'm not sure what department number, but it is again here in pleasanton. it is wednesday that he will be making a plea and the judge will set bail.

and yes, you can just walk in.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:04 am

HMM

Thank you, I was at the hearing this morning and will be there next wednesday. It's sad because I think a lot of people who went today weren't supporting him.


Posted by A Reader
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 2:59 pm

Germain appeared with legal counsel before Judge Hugh Walker Friday morning, but was not prepared to enter a plea. His plea hearing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Sept. 10.

According to court documents, three letters depicting various incidents of molestation written by three females ages 19 to 22 were submitted to management at the Castlewood Country Club. All three were enrolled in the club's tennis program and claimed abuse occurred between 1997 and 2001, when the victims were between 9 and 12 years old.

J.D. Nelson of the Alameda County Sheriff's Department said Germain has no known criminal history, and reports show there were no complaints made to the country club concerning him. Prior to his arraignment Wednesday, people outside the courtroom shared comments of disbelief, adding that he is well-known and well-liked.

Germain, a father of three, has been formally charged with unlawful sexual acts with two of the three victims, as investigators have reportedly been unable to contact the third victim. The Alameda County Sheriff's Office believes there are more victims who have yet to come forward.

"Jane Doe 1" told investigators that recent events in her life led her to find closure.

"I don't want any other girl to ever have to endure what I had to," Doe 1 told investigators.

Court documents show the sex crimes happened on the country club's tennis courts and in the pro shop, as well as in Germain's home, car and pool. Investigators reported incidents with Doe 1 to have happened "on hundreds of occasions."

"She would tell him to stop but he would tell her she was pretty and deserved that," the report states. "Doe 1 did not report any of the incidents to family, friends or authorities because Germain told her that it was his word versus hers and no one would believe her. Doe felt very alone and kept her abuse quiet."

On Sept. 1, according to reports, Doe 1 agreed to confront Germain about her sexual abuse. Wearing a wire, she allegedly approached him during an event at the club and told him that her emotional problems were because she had been molested by him as a child.

Reports state Germain "made several admissions and apologies for sexually abusing Doe 1. His statements were very incriminating and help confirm Doe 1, 2 and 3's allegations."

When confronted by police and arrested, Germain was allegedly shocked. During an interview, detectives said he made admissions to "inappropriately touching children" but denied claims about touching genital regions.

Detectives used search warrants to recover evidence. In his Dublin apartment, detectives allegedly found his room "was filled and decorated with children's toys, paintings, photographs, [pornographic] movies and memorabilia."

In addition, court documents also show detectives found "a set of binoculars on his counter overlooking the {apartment complex] pool" and "dozens of photographs [on his computer] of young girls who were apparently tennis students."

Germain is expected to enter a plea at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 10 at the Pleasanton courthouse, 5672 Stoneridge Drive, Department 701.


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 3:03 pm

Got Henry?


Posted by Concerned
a resident of Ironwood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 3:08 pm

I still can't believe the lies.


Posted by anonnn
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 4:08 pm

It's still hard to believe. In the article, it said he had childrens toys and paintings. He does have a young daughter, those could be hers. It also says he has porn (I don't know if they mean child porn) but regular porn, come on, every single man has that. And the pictures of girls from the tennis are a bit odd, but he has been coaching for 16 years, so it makes a little sense. The molestation going on on the courts and tennis shop to me is really odd. There are always people around, and if they were going on every day someone must have seen something. If him taking the child back to his apartment was true, then where are the parents in this? Who would let their kid go home with a tennis instructor? I think the details in this article are still a little vague but who knows.


Posted by sad...
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 4:17 pm

I can't believe this actulally happened!!! I took tennis from him ever since I was 5 and now I am a teen. He never did anyhting to me or my friends to make me feel uncomfortable. I even rode in his car to tournaments, and he never did anything inappropriate. Nothing seemed wrong. I feel very sorry for his 3 kids. I left castlewood right before the arrest, and one of his kids was happily smiling at the pool, but little did he know that less than an hour later, his dad would be arrrested. I still think he's innocent though in my eyes. It is just soo hard for me to comphrend that he molested or inappropriatly touched kids.


Posted by sad...
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 4:17 pm

I can't believe this actulally happened!!! I took tennis from him ever since I was 5 and now I am a teen. He never did anyhting to me or my friends to make me feel uncomfortable. I even rode in his car to tournaments, and he never did anything inappropriate. Nothing seemed wrong. I feel very sorry for his 3 kids. I left castlewood right before the arrest, and one of his kids was happily smiling at the pool, but little did he know that less than an hour later, his dad would be arrrested. I still think he's innocent though in my eyes. It is just soo hard for me to comphrend that he molested or inappropriatly touched kids.


Posted by anonymous
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 4:18 pm

Protecting children from sexual abuse. Web Link


Posted by sad...
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 4:18 pm

opps! posted the same thing twice.


Posted by Anonnnn
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 4:46 pm

sad

If you can, go to his hearing next wednesday @ 10:30 am if you can. He needs all the support he can get!


Posted by sad..
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 5:03 pm

sorry! I have school to attend to and i don't cut class.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 5, 2008 at 5:20 pm

sad...BRAVO! Attendance is an important priority. Go for it!

Anonnnn...How come you're encouraging a student to cut class? Please explain what it means to you to "support" Henry.

If you're also a student, the work for the day could be tons more interesting.


Posted by Anonnn
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 5:23 pm

UM how was I supposed to know she had class?

It is not really any of your business if I have class/work or whatever. I am not saying he is innocent, but I am not saying he is guilty. I am showing my support that someone out there still cares about him, even through this horrible time. I am sure if there was a good friend of yours you would too.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 5:25 pm

Innocent until proven guilty. Sadly more like Guilty until proven innocent, but yet people will still assume your guilty.


Posted by jjj
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 5:59 pm

I don't think this article is completely honest. They make is seem like there is child porn on his computer, but I think they just mean regular porn. Also, they say he was pictures of girl tennis students on his computer, but there could be pictures of male students too but of course they wouldn't put that in. I think this article (or publisher) twist the truth


Posted by ptr
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 6:20 pm

Also, whether he is proven guilty or innocent, it's over for him. If he is proven innocent, he won't get his job back, or any job atleast involving tennis, he's going to lose a lot of people that he thought were close to him, his community will probably harass him until he gets out of town, and then he'd probably have to move away from his kids.

No one on here knows the truth. The girls could be lying, so could Henry. Anyone can be a child molester, but also anyone can lie about being molested.


Posted by Castlewood Resident
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 7:25 pm


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am not a blogger, but maybe this will be theraputic in some way. I hope I do not make it too long. I live in Castlewood, I have daughters who have been involved in Henry's clinics, private lessons, and have even visited local tennis tournaments (with other adults) with Henry in his van. My daughters started at the age the suggested victims were when the alleged crimes took place.




I have always been the one that told everybody that Henry Germain was the best thing going in Castlewood. He could make looser shine, he could make those physically gifted true stars, and he could enhance self esteem in all of his students. He could start with a 5 year old and teach him tennis that would enable him to be on the tennis team in high school and excel whether he was able to excel academically, in leadership or in art. Henry had the ability to help children feel good about themselves by learning, achieving, and excelling. Henry could make that child a star in a athletic evironment through his "drop in" clinics. I strongly want to believe that Henry is innocent.




Now. . . is what we are hearing true? I hope not, but I have discussed this with my daughters (who are still young), but old enough to have computers, access web-sites, read blogs, and talk to their friends at middle school, and develop opinions.




This is what they are saying. I really hope Henry is okay. Henry surely is not going to stay in jail is he? What about his Henry's place--who is going to take care of that. Henry would not do those things we have read about. Do you realize, Mom, how good he is with kids and how much time he spends trying to make them even better than they are.




Then I talk. Yes, but sometimes strange things happen. The people we trust have a strange side that may come out only when you are with them. I know you were never at Henry's house, but you were in that back room at the pro shop. What, if Henry, when you were 9 years old touched your underwear--what would you do. "Mom, we knew even in the second grade that it was not right--we would have scooted out of that back room into the pro shop and out the front door if needed. We would have known even at 9 that was not a fun thing to do. Beside that if nobody was there we would have run up the hill to the country club office". In addition to their comments, I never left them at the clinics without checking even on rainey days that the clinic was going to happen and that there were other children there. I never arrived late to pick them up. I never walked down to the pro shop, but I could see them in that window handing out Gummie Bears and sodas to the winners of matches. Everything looked acceptable to me--and it was for my daughters.




Now you know where I am going. As hopeless as I might seem in hoping for the innocence of Henry, I am sorry, but I must ask, If Henry is guilty-- where was the gosh darn parents??? Let me ask the Mothers and fathers. Would you permit your precious 9-12 year old to go to a sleep-over at the home of one of their friends who had a single parent who was a man? I hope you said "NO". Would you drop your child off at the club at 1pm and pick them up at 7 pm, pay for 1 1/2 hour of a clinic, but use the tennis courts as a baby sitter even though it was pouring down rain and nobody was in sight. Would you happily send your child off to tennis tournaments, Austrailia, Arizona with the tennis pro because you worked and did not want to take the time off from work?




Now I know where you are going. That does not give the tennis pro the license to take advantage, abuse, and ruin a childs life--you are right. But, there are responsibilities on both sides.




I pray for the alleged victims, I pray for Henry. I want all to be innocent. I want to "reset" back to a day before all of this happened. We need the help of a superior being to help us through this and I hope he is listening to all of us--the alleged victims, Henry, and those of us who are suffering. I hope he can help all of us.







Posted by Castlewood Resident, a resident of the Castlewood neighborhood, 18 minutes ago


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Let me ask you. If you were the abused, suddenly turned 20, woke up one morning with your brains in tack and decided to report this criminal abuse that had ruined your life would you have gone to the General Manager of the Castlewood Country Club and reported the abuse and asked that the tennis pro be fired OR would you have gone to the police. I think it would have depended on your goal and our parents goal.
Posted by Interested Person, a resident of the Castlewood neighborhood, 9 minutes ago


Posted by Conflicting Reports
a resident of Downtown
on Sep 5, 2008 at 7:33 pm

Whoa! The comments in the press are all over the place. One says Henry Germain confessed and the next says he said he may have touched the child in an inappropriate manner, but never sexually. Is that a confession?

Two other comments. I wonder if the Sheriff department's not being able to come up with an arrest in the double homicide in Castlewood has anything to do with there unbelievable swift movements in this case? Whoa--they are over the top. And the DA saying no bail twice? That is almost unprecedented in this area.

What about not arrests, innocent until proven guilty?

I have also heard the sheriffs department has been unmerciful in demanding interviews with children that have had contact with Mr. Germain and were in the suspected age category. Many parents felt they were trying to suggest problems when they did not exist.


Posted by Chris
a resident of Stoneridge
on Sep 5, 2008 at 7:35 pm

My wife and I have known Henry for 14 years. For some of those we were quite close. We've spent thousands of hours with and around him on the courts and on trips. These allegations are very hard to believe, especially those that complain of abuse on the courts.

As others have pointed out, the courts and shop at Castlewood are very busy, and when there are kids around, there are also adults around, including us. My wife is acutely sensitive to inappropriate behavior (with children OR adults), and I pay pretty close attention too. Neither of us ever saw anything that would raise an eyebrow.

The news reports of this case are at best ambiguous. The early reports (especially the first one in the Herald) contained truly shocking allegations that have not been repeated, and were not made in court. Each subsequent report's charges seem flimsier.

The latest news story seems to be the most accurate, and very subject to interpretation. For example lots of photos of girl tennis players (duh! he's a tennis coach who's had hundreds of students! were there any other pictures? doesn't say). Lots of child toys, memorabilia, etc (duh! he has a young daughter!). Etc.

Henry is a good man, a good father, a great tennis instructor, and good friend. He deserves support and a fair hearing. Those who automatically assume he's a monster (and there are many at Castlewood, though as far as I know none that actually know him), bring shame to our great country and its justice system.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 5, 2008 at 7:37 pm

Henry is in jail for just cause.

Anonnnn, are you a non-student adult trying to encourage a student to ditch class? Answer the question.

If you want to be present on Wednesday, be present. How come you would encourage a student to engage in delinquent behavior? Have you asked for parental permission?

Just cause doesn't mean that a person is guilty. VBB, can you explain to the rest of us what just cause means? Thank you.

Residents in Plutonia are in mourning. It will pass.


Posted by Anonnn
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 7:54 pm

Got Henry?


Posted by Ray Lee
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 7:58 pm

Got Henry?


Posted by Qwerty
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 8:26 pm

Got grease?


Posted by anonn
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:39 pm

Cholo

I don't need to tell you anything, but I am a student if you must know.


Posted by JL
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:41 pm

Cholo

wow
you are a jerk, which is sad. Seems like you don't have much else to do. How is anonn supposed to know how old the girl is? she said she's a teen, which could mean 17/18/19 old enough to decide to go to a court hearing herself.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:45 pm

I'd have to agree with Chris and castlewood resident. Where were the parents in this? I have seen at castlewood people dropping their kids off and leaving them there for hours. Like it was a daycare. Then there were the parents who stayed there or arrived on time to pick up there children. I don't see how any of the alleged victims had time alone with him in the shop and on the courts.

I love how some guy is using our usernames or whatever to post stuff like Got henry?
real mature.


Posted by ccc
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:46 pm

I heard they did an investigation and found enough "evidence" to arrest him. or else they wouldn't have been able to do so.


Posted by oh well
a resident of another community
on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:48 pm

I find all of this to be very SAD. I too know Henry and want to believe that it is not true. My children played tennis at Castlewood and we never had a problem. I have been very confused. My heart is with his children. If true the pain he caused his children is unbearable and I feel that they need to be though of as well.

I understand why many people are perplexed as to why anyone would allow their children to be alone with a tennis coach. All I can say is that we need to monitor ourselves. Wanting our children to get ahead is a problem we are experiencing in society. The idea of special attention for our child's talent needs to be monitored by us, the parents. I am not sure but I believe in my gut that the victims were talented players, and the parents may have trusted the tennis coach to hepl them get a leg up.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:55 am

I wouldn't be so fast to judge the parents.

Tens of thousands of children have been sexually abused by clergy and the parents were excellent parents. Adults that molest children are determined to get close to children. They don't think of sex with children as wrong let alone harmful.

Get some rest JL, tomorrow is another day.


Posted by stayhomedad
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 1:35 am

I have a question for "Castlewood Resident" from above, you said "Would you permit your precious 9-12 year old to go to a sleep-over at the home of one of their friends who had a single parent who was a man? I hope you said "NO"? Did I take that wrong?
My wife works, actually she works ALOT, and sometimes I feel like a single parent (shes away some nights). And I'm raising our beautiful daughters. So, should my daughters not be allowed sleepovers with their friends when my wife is away? Am I endangering anyone?


Posted by Castlewood Resident
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 6, 2008 at 8:49 am

As a parent I would never allow my young daughter to go to a sleep over without the Mother present. As a mother I would never let my young daughter invite a friend to sleep over if I was not present. This does not acuse anybody of anything. It is just a prudent thing to do if you are a prudent parent.

In the same context, would I ever arrive late to pick up my daughter and leave her standing on the street corner waiting for me--no. Why take the chance.


Posted by workingmom
a resident of Oak Hill
on Sep 6, 2008 at 9:55 am

Like stay at home Dad's wife, I am a working Mom. My husband is a wonderful father to our three daughters. NO, I would not allow him to host a sleep-over with my daughter and her friends. Too much at stake. Too much left for interpretation. Beware stay at home dad-anyone can make any type of accusation and it's hard to shake even an accusation.


Posted by stayhomedad
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 11:33 am

Thanks for the advice.
You people that spoke on "my question" are pathetic. I'm a loving father, and I'm offended by your "prudentness."


Posted by Pro-Law
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 11:38 am

Doo Doo,

"Thanks Pleasanton PD.... My two daughters are just alittle bit safer today."

Actually any of your thanks goes to the Alameda County Sheriff's Department. Castlewood is Sheriff territory and they made the arrest. Thats is why the spokesperson for this case is a Deputy Sheriff.


Posted by Pro-Law
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 11:50 am

Why are some people blaming the parents? Do people truly think a parent would purposely put their child at risk? Whose not to say he was a very close family friend who just took advantage of the situation (not to say that is what happened). Its not like people walk around with what type of criminal they are written on their forehead (not saying Henry is or isn't of course)

Also, do people really think the news articles are going to go in much detail about what happened, what evidence may or may not have been collected, and get specific. It is a criminal investigation and the media is not going to be privy to all or even most of the facts.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:11 pm

I am not blaming the parents. I don't doubt that if they were molested, that the parents are bad parents. I am just curious to why, if it is true, the parents would let their child go home with a man. I heard someone say maybe he said his kids would be there so they all could play. That wouldn't be true.During the age gap the victim are , 19-23 I believe, wouldn't make them ideal playmates when they are younger. I am pretty sure his oldest is only 16 now.


Posted by CHOLO
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 1:42 pm

VBB, everybody is struggling to understand a very complex situation. The story will unfold in due time. Be patient.

Consider reading up on how children, parents, families,and communities are groomed by perpetrators. That in itself is an amazing study. Keep and open mind and be willing to tolerate a certain level of discomfort. This tragic drama has many victims...many of whom are posting on this blog.

I believe that the survivor's are the ones that have suffered the most. Their lives have ripped apart. In my opinion, Henry is behind bars where he belongs.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 1:45 pm

Correction: Cholo


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 1:53 pm

I could say the same to you Cholo

Be patient.
I think hes possibly innocent
you think he's guilty.

and you're telling me to be patient?

right back at ya


Posted by ptr
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 6, 2008 at 1:55 pm

I love how some people are freaking out about the porn thing.
If it is child porn, I am sure they would have made a bigger deal about it in their article.

Plus many single men (and non single men) have porn. If you're one of those men or women who believe it's disgusting or not every man has porn then okay. Either way it's not illegal for him to own porn. Otherwise a lot of people would be in jail


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 3:16 pm

I haven't read anything that suggests that folks are "freaking out about the porn thing". Can you please explain what you mean by "freaking out"?

In what way is "porn" an important part of your life ptr? Is it something that you need to live by or can you just pass it up and be equally happy without it?

VBB, are you a perpetrator, like perhaps a child molester to? Like Alice in Wonderland, I'm getting curiousier and curiousier...hmmmmmmm?









Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 3:21 pm

There you go again "child molester too" (two o's by the way) assuming that he is guilty.

I don't like accusing people without knowing all the facts. And we probably will never know


Posted by ptr
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 6, 2008 at 3:24 pm

Freaking out is just a figure of speech.

I have been reading other posts, not just in this one.

Cholo, you're the one that sounds more like a child molester than anyone else on here.


Posted by kj
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 6, 2008 at 3:26 pm

I'd also like to point out his name is Cholo. Which means gangsta more or less.

So since you (cholo) are being so judgemental I am going to assume you're a gang member who has shot people.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 3:50 pm

VBB, you haven't explained what you mean what "freaking out" means to you. Please be more specific.

Lots of Plutonians are hurting and some are truly suffering because of what has been reported and Henry. Can you please explain how you "love how some people are freaking out about the porn thing"? Porn clearly has an emotional charge for you. Do you need to have porn about you to feel more complete as a man? Just asking. After all, isn't it about paper pictures of pretend women? Not actual women? Is that what you're all about? Ink and paper? A secret pretend life?

As for kj, Mr. Primitive, get some rest.

VIVA Cholo! VIVA!


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 6, 2008 at 4:06 pm

I never posted anything about "freaking out" why do you care what I think it means?


Posted by wow
a resident of Castlewood
on Sep 6, 2008 at 4:06 pm

Wow cholo you are one sad individual.

I hope people ignore anymore comments you make


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 5:04 pm

wow = Mr. Primitive!


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 6, 2008 at 5:10 pm

ptr...I'm waiting for your response. Where are you...where are you hiding? Behind paper pictures of pretend women? Ink and paper...fantasy play time? Hello ptr...where are you? Are you all about paddy cakes and pretending you're a man? Wimpy! Or, is it Limpy?
hahahahahahahahahahaha.


Posted by ptr
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 6, 2008 at 6:00 pm

answer to what


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Canyon Oaks
on Sep 7, 2008 at 10:45 am

exactly!


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Canyon Oaks
on Sep 7, 2008 at 10:46 am

ptr...don't forget to get out your tweezers when you play with you paper ink dolls....hahahahahahahahahahahahhaa...


Posted by cholo
a resident of Birdland
on Sep 7, 2008 at 10:48 am

jj, ptr and ddd....= timmy, or is it tammy?


Posted by VBB
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 7, 2008 at 9:48 pm

I finally get it about Henry. He is guilty. I was lied to.


Posted by wow
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 7, 2008 at 9:54 pm

My mother looks like a Hippo.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 7, 2008 at 10:13 pm

Hi ptr, I hope you're having lots of fun with your tweezers and paper dolls. Please, explain to all your family what joy you derive from playing with pictures on paper with lots of inky.

Justice will be done.


Posted by Henry
a resident of Dublin
on Sep 8, 2008 at 10:59 am

Got mercy?


Posted by wow
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 8, 2008 at 1:01 pm

It is so sad and immature that someone poses on here as my name and post something so ridiculously.

Also, that they posted as Henry. That is so sad and selfish. I sickens me people are still like that.


Posted by VBB
a resident of another community
on Sep 8, 2008 at 1:01 pm

wow

someone posted as me too. Really dumb.


Posted by VBB
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 8, 2008 at 2:01 pm

I just read that some of Henry's victims were unconscious when he used foreign objects on them. This was in the booking info....see the other thread...more is revealed about this sick pervert.

I do care what happens to him now.


Posted by VBB
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 8, 2008 at 2:07 pm

BOOKING CHARGES AGAINST HENRY: Web Link

I'M CONVINCED NOW! WOW..WHAT ABOUT YOU?


Posted by wow
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 8, 2008 at 2:08 pm

Web Link

sad to say but I agree that says it all...henry is a scumbag


Posted by Mario
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 8, 2008 at 2:10 pm

I take it back....henry is the creep that i didn't want to admit.

Anybody that used object on unconscious girls is truly sick.

Web Link


Posted by ???
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 8, 2008 at 5:33 pm

fake VBB/wow/Mario posts = Cholo?

maybe


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 8, 2008 at 7:20 pm

Take the high road ??? and trust that justice will prevail.

Whatever your problem, I know that you cannot control any outcome. You and the rest of us will have to wait until the court reaches a decision.
Until then, Happy Trail!


Posted by ???
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Sep 8, 2008 at 7:54 pm

thank you for that wise advice, cholo, but that actually has nothing to do with my post.


Posted by Cholo
a resident of Livermore
on Sep 8, 2008 at 8:25 pm

Happy Trails ???.

Do you doubt that you exist?

Bitterness will get you nowhere!


Posted by Anonymous
a resident of Pleasanton Village
on Sep 9, 2008 at 2:13 am

I have know Henry for a long time but not was not close to him at all. but i know somebody who is/was his best friend. He admitted it when the girls approached him about it. they were wired via investigators and got it on tape. he also said he's glad he got caught because he was tired of living with this. He also didn't even show up with a lawyer in court. when asked by judge about it his answer was stupid but slightly funny. i feel sorry for the victims and his 3 kids. he hasn't seen or talked to anybody.


Posted by Jeb Bing
editor of the Pleasanton Weekly
on Sep 9, 2008 at 6:39 am

Jeb Bing is a registered user.

These comments have run their course. Thanks for posting. There are posts still running based on more recent developments.


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