Danvers Man Pleads Not Guilty to Indecent Assault Charges
Dewayne Davenport, 53, of Danvers, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under the age of 14, as announced by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office. The disturbing allegations stem from incidents dating back to the early 2000s, during Davenport’s tenure as a gymnastics instructor at Yellow Jacket Gymnastics in Danvers and the now-defunct Palaestra Gymnastics Academy in North Andover.
Davenport’s employment with Yellow Jacket Gymnastics ceased in 2011 when new management took over. He has not returned to the position since. In a statement to The Boston Globe, the academy confirmed this timeline regarding Davenport’s employment.
At a court appearance on Wednesday, Davenport was released on personal recognizance with specific conditions, including a prohibition against contacting any alleged victims or witnesses. His next court date is scheduled for October 2. The case has raised serious concerns within the local community as authorities work to address the allegations.
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