Atherton equestrian coach pleads no contest to child molestation charges

An equestrian coach from Atherton who worked throughout San Mateo County pleaded no contest to charges of child molestation and attempted possession of child pornography, according to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office, as reported by KRON4.

The coach, Alec Lawler, 34, was convicted of two felony counts of attempted possession of child pornography and two misdemeanor counts of child molesting. He also admitted to aggravating factors related to the case.

Prosecutors said that in 2022, Lawler sent explicit videos of himself to a 15-year-old female student and requested sexual photographs from her. When the victim asked to keep their relationship professional, Lawler responded angrily, according to the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office.

Lawler was arrested in Southern California on January 5, 2023. Authorities noted there could be additional victims due to his role as a coach working with minors. He remains out of custody on a $2.5 million bail bond with conditions including wearing an ankle monitor.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 21, according to the DA’s office.