Sequoia Pathway Athletic Director Faces Serious Child Assault Allegations

The parent of a Sequoia Pathway Academy student has filed charges against a football coach, claiming he physically assaulted her 13-year-old son. The incident occurred on September 26, 2023, in Santa Rosa Springs.

Germanni Hernandez, the mother, alleges that Brandon Payne, the athletic director and head football coach, became aggressive after a basketball game involving students. According to Hernandez, the confrontation unfolded in the lunchroom during her son’s physical education class.

Hernandez described how Payne joined the game and allegedly used excessive force, resulting in injury to her son. As her son attempted to exit the situation, Payne reportedly shouted at him and pushed him against the bleachers, trying to force him to sit. When her son refused, the coach escorted him to the front office, where he briefly spoke with the registrar before returning to class.

It wasn’t until Hernandez sought answers that she learned of the incident. She expressed frustration at not being notified earlier, stating, “Nobody from the school contacted me yesterday… The vice principal had no clue what was going on.”

After discussions with school officials, Hernandez confirmed that she would pursue legal action. The Maricopa Police Department has acknowledged the report filed today and is currently investigating the claims.

Hernandez noted that authorities would need to interview parents before formally questioning witnesses among the students. School administrators, including Principal Julianne Toepfer and Vice Principal Sheri Forester, have since apologized for the lack of communication.

Toepfer indicated that they were adhering to established procedural guidelines regarding disciplinary actions, but also mentioned that the school’s investigation might be paused due to the ongoing police inquiry.

Sequoia Pathway Academy executives were not available for comment. The situation remains under investigation, with updates expected as the police wrap up their inquiries.