Cabrillo Unified teacher, coach arrested on suspicion of sexual assault of student

HALF MOON BAY — A man who worked as a teacher and coach for the Cabrillo Unified School District was arrested Thursday for allegedly sexually assaulting a former student in 2008 when she was a minor, authorities said.

Paul A. Farnsworth, 61, was charged with one felony count of lewd act upon a child with enhancements for use of force, minor victim and substantial sexual conduct and one felony count of sexual penetration by a foreign object, according to court records. He pleaded not guilty on Friday.

Authorities began their investigation into Farnsworth this month after a woman reported that he sexually assaulted her when he was her coach in 2008, according to a news release from the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office. One year later, when she was 16 years old, Farnsworth allegedly began a sexual relationship with her.

An attorney for Farnsworth could not be reached Friday.

Ramon Miramontes, superintendent of the Cabrillo Unified School District, said in a statement Friday that Farnsworth was placed on leave after police informed the district of the investigation on Wednesday.

“The safety and well-being of our students, past and present, is our highest priority. We recognize that news of this nature can be deeply concerning, particularly in our close-knit community where students, families, staff, and former students have long-standing connections with our schools,” Miramontes said. “CUSD is cooperating fully with law enforcement and will continue to do so as the investigation proceeds. As law enforcement provides additional information, we will continue to keep our community informed as appropriate.”

CUSD is offering counseling and support services for students who need it, Miramontes added.

Police obtained a warrant for Farnsworth’s arrest and he was booked into the Maguire Correctional Facility, authorities added.

The victim was also connected with community support resources, authorities said.

Authorities believe that there may be further victims of Farnsworth, and urged them to come forward.

Anyone with further information on this incident is asked to contact Detective Pitts at 650-363-4060 or [email protected]. Tips can also be anonymously submitted to 1-800-547-2700.