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RAMAPO, N.Y. (AP) — A former Rockland County high school football coach has been acquitted of charges he struck a player with a helmet.
Duffman Pannell was acquitted Monday of felony assault and endangering the welfare of a child.
Pannell lost his position at Ramapo High School after the allegations last October.
His lawyer tells the Journal News (http://lohud.us/1DtkZPx ) Pannell will ask the East Ramapo school district to reinstate him as a teacher of social studies and economics.
The family of the 15-year-old player has also filed a civil lawsuit against Pannell and the district. But Pannell's lawyer says the student's testimony during the nonjury trial contradicted his deposition in the civil lawsuit.
A lawyer for the family and school officials couldn't be reached for comment. Prosecutors say they "respect the court's decision."
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Information from: The Journal News, http://www.lohud.com
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