Coach sentenced to 9 months for sex with female students

“I knew it was wrong. I enjoyed the attention, but I let it go too far,” says former St. Helena High wrestling, volleyball coach

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Comment

By MARSHA DORGAN
Register Staff Writer

The former St. Helena High School wrestling and volleyball coach convicted of sexually molesting two students will not go to prison.

On Wednesday, Herschel Sandler, 45, was sentenced to 270 days in county jail and five years on probation.

The Napa County Probation Department recommended that Sandler be allowed to leave the courthouse a free man because he had served time after his arrest.

However, Napa County Superior Court Judge Rodney Stone ordered Sandler to serve the nine months in jail. He must also register as a sex offender.

Stone said the two teen female victims were especially vulnerable, and Sandler had used his position of trust to take advantage of them.

When Sandler was arrested in April, he was charged with two counts of oral copulation with a minor under 16, one count of oral copulation with a minor under 18, and one count of a lewd act with minor under 16.

Although the incidents happened almost a decade ago, the victims did not come forward until earlier this year.

In May, Sandler pleaded no contest to two counts of oral copulation. Part of the plea bargain was he would not serve prison time, according to the Napa County District Attorney’s Office.

The victims were 15 and 16 when the assaults happened at his office, on the school grounds and inside his car between 1996 and 1999. Sandler was 33.

Both victims told investigators the sex was consensual, adding he never forced himself on them.

However, the girls told authorities that Sandler initiated the sexual encounters.

The 15-year-old victim told police she considered Sandler to be “my mentor, my coach and the primary adult figure in my life,” according to an evaluation done by the county probation department before Sandler’s sentencing.

Sandler told probation officers one of the victims pursued him in a romantic way and “I found her advancements flattering.”

Sandler admitted to kissing the victims and allowing things to escalate. “I knew it was wrong. I enjoyed the attention, but I let it go too far,” the report stated, adding, he said he took one of the victims to the movies and noticed she “was coming on stronger and stronger.”

He described one of the victims as “aggressive and provocative. I did nothing to start it.” He said that it did not happen the way the victims said it did, “but I took the plea to protect my family.”

Sandler stopped coaching in 2004. He also is no longer serves as a youth pastor at a St. Helena church.

The court ordered Sandler to turn himself into the county jail on Aug. 22, to begin serving his sentence.

135 comment(s)

marine1/1 wrote on Jul 23, 2008 3:53 PM:

" What deputy DA prosecuted this case? This monster should have gone to prison where he himself would be the victim of sexual assault,lewd acts and oral copulation. I cannot beleive the District Attourney himself agreed to this.Right now, he is still trying to blame the victims.I hope this haunts him forever and people keep bringing it up when he is around others.Shame on the DA's office and the courts.County jail is a cake walk compared to what he should have got as a sentence.What an example that is showing to other child molesters in Napa County.I'm glad he doesn't live on my street. "

Redredwine wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:10 PM:

" Wow, only 9 months!!! He had sex with a 15 and 16 year old!!! I just don't quite get it??

He "enjoyed" the attention? OMG... what a perp! "

1napanow wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:24 PM:

" This guy is really a piece of work! He will only take responsibility for what he is forced to do. First, it never happened and he gets the community to back him and the great things he has done. Even trots out his poor naive wife when he KNOWS he is guilty. Then he cops a deal to escape prison in the "big house", making his supporters look like pitiful fools. Now the probation report comes out and he tries to lay the blame on teenage girls, that "it did not happen the way the victims said it did, “but I took the plea (bargain) to protect my family.” What a crock! Herschel Sandler you took a plea to save your behind. I have a suggestion for his family and friends: do not take this man back into your life until he takes FULL responsibility for what he has done, makes restitution, and walks the talk for a long time. He is a sociopath and a con man. Herschel, open your bible and read what it says about sin, repentence and restoration. It is going to be painful, but the reward is eternal! "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:25 PM:

" Yep, blaming the victims is typical.....

BTW - What happened to all those who whined about being innocent until proven guilty? Hmmmmm....???

Copping a plea to "protect his family". Wow, what a great guy... "

crusherfan wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:27 PM:

" “aggressive and provocative. I did nothing to start it.”
HE SHOULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING TO STOP IT!!!HE TOOK A PLEA BARGAIN BECAUSE HE WAS PROBABLY TO HAVE BEEN FOUND GUILTY OF MORE!!
100% WRONG.HOW DO ALL OF HIS SUPPORTERS FEEL NOW???SO MUCH FOR JUSTICE "

jb123 wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:45 PM:

" Just another case of the napa court system doing a really horrific job...
The prosecuters and judges involved in this case should be put away. What a joke. I love how our justice system protects the criminals!!! Thank you napa courts!
What a bunch of crap. He should've got 25 years. Those girls will be damaged for life. "

lucylutoo wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:55 PM:

" Here is a man who is not taking any responsibility for his own actions by saying he did nothing to start it, the molestation of minors, and he will be back out on the streets in 9 months. Watch out Napa, after nine months in jail he is really going to be needing some attention! This is totally disgusting! What a horrible message to his victims! "

raybo wrote on Jul 23, 2008 5:08 PM:

" This doesn't seem like justice to me. How did he get such a deal from the D.A. and probation department? "

Native74 wrote on Jul 23, 2008 5:20 PM:

" Wow. Other than the 'minor' part you'd think we were blogging about a certain ex-President! About the same time frame really and yet this one is serving at least 9 months whereas someone in a heightened position did not serve anytime at all. Yikes!

It's all sick, don't get me wrong. I just happened to see this one from a different perspective and perhaps so did the judge. Gives me the creeps. "

freeport56 wrote on Jul 23, 2008 5:32 PM:

" we can all follow his life on the Megans Law Website forever.

I do think the propbation department needs an overhaul and hose-cleaning. Time served for having sex with children! "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:00 PM:

" I'm just wondering, is there a statute of limitations or does it no longer exist?
At 33 with a 15 & 16 year old who he has authority over, in my opinion, his guilt started the moment he thought he could get away with it. The "authority" makes a great deal of difference as far as I am concerned. If these girls met a 33 year old man at a dance, shopping, or anywhere else would it make a difference? I believe it makes a lot of difference. In that case I could see a 9 month jail sentence for a 33 year old for statutory with a 15 or 16 year old. But a teacher, boss, cop, pastor, etc. should be held to a much greater standard. In their case it isn't just a chance meeting where you may not even know the age of the girl in the development of an inappropriate relationship. Also, those in authority are taught/educated not to even allow himself/herself to be alone with another person.
Innocent until proven guilty is a great principle of any fair society. "

newmom wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:01 PM:

" wow!!! it is amazing that the DA, the probation department and the judge all agreed that he should not go to prison. It is a shame when there is a plea bargain and we do not get all the facts to know someones guilt nor innocence and we have to only rely on the facts the paper gives us. How could the Da, the judge, the probation department and his council have all gotten it wrong? Hmmmmmmm...... "

In My Opinion wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:32 PM:

" Way to stick it to your supporters Herschel! So sad that you tried to have them all believe you!
This sentence his not right! I was a victim when I was 15 and the perv got the SAME sentencing! I guess all sex offenders should move to Napa! We only give a slap on the wrist! "

theman wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:39 PM:

" He probably got a good deal from the D.A. and probation department because the sex was consensual which means the girls agreed to the sex. "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:00 PM:

" I don't think this man should serve any time or be in any trouble if it was consensual. In other countries its alright to have sexual realtions with a minor, some countries even allow minors to marry adults. Does that mean those countries are wrong and were right? Once a female has her first menstration cycle then she is able to become pregnant and breed. Thats how the animal kingdom works. If these girls were 17 years and 364 days old when these encounters happend would that extra day when they turn 18 make any difference? Does there mind change the second they turn 18? Doesn't make any sense to me seeing how this was all consensual "

newmom wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:07 PM:

" ok... now i am really frustrated. The charges were for girls under 18 not under 16 and they dismissed the other charges. What is the truth? Maybe he got such a great deal from the Da and Probation because they have more information than the paper and the bloggers here. He went through the process and the judge gave him a punishment that he felt he deserved. The system either works or it doesn't. End of Story!! "

biLly wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:28 PM:

" Pathetic...the DA loves to chase easy cases that waste time and money this case would have been hard and wasted just time and money....when will people be held accountable for their actions...???
Since when is it ok to respond to advances from a 15 year old that you are coaching??? WOW our society is in the toilet "

ac wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:31 PM:

" DISGUSTING!

I also remember the support this guy had on line. How sad that so many trusted this guy.

Next time,,,if the guy sounds toooooooooooo good, say "NO"! "

Newprtbeachgrl wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:47 PM:

" I actually went to school with Herschel last year when he and I were in the Teacher's Credentialing program at PUC...
He was a really nice guy, very smart, well educated, and respectful of all of us in the class, so I was shocked to see his picture in the paper and now this follow up article...
I'm not saying that what he did was ok (if he actually did it, which I don't think he did), but everyone is painting him as a horrible monster, and he's not at all, he's actually a great guy.
Everyone does things they wish they didn't...haven't you? He messed up 10 years ago. Where is the mercy? "

lucylutoo wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:20 PM:

" This is horrible! This man isn't even taking responsibility for what he did by stating that he didn't start it! It doesn't matter, he should have stopped it! Nine months in jail isn't enough! Watch out Napa! When this man is released he will be starving for attention then what? I for one am disgusted! "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 23, 2008 9:07 PM:

" Newprtbeachgrl: I figured there'd be one comment like that, sooner or later.

Under 18-years old is called statutory rape, just in case you haven't heard, consensual or not.

I guess Hershel isn't the only one who thinks sex with teeny-boppers is okay.

Anyone else think it's okay...??? "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 23, 2008 9:55 PM:

" To Dwayne, I think its ok with someone under 18 as long as its consensual. I stated earlier that what if this girl was 17 years and 364 days old when this happend. When she turns 18 does something magical happend to her to make her more mature, does her way of thinking completly change? Age is just a number. Other countries and states allow relations with girls or guys under 18, many places allow marriage of people over 18 with people under 18. Does that make all of them wrong and us right? Or maybe were wrong and they're right and we need to change our laws? Mabye he did brake the law of this state and should be punished for that, but don't attack his morals. If he did this in another state that allows it then people wouldn't call him a creep or a molester or a perv, it wouldn't be an issue at all. A law may have been broken but don't attack him personally like he's some monster. "

kdbk wrote on Jul 23, 2008 10:40 PM:

" Sure, tiredofcomplainingnapkins, the standard of age 18 is just way too moralistic, right? So silly are we Americans to believe that a young lady should reach age 18 before 33 year old guys can have intimate relations with them. Yep, the rest of the world is so enlightened, what with them being okey-dokey about 14 year old girls getting married to 30 year old guys. Yes, YES tiredofcomplainingnapkins, way to go! You support men in their 30s and young teenagers getting married. What a proud moment for you indeed. "

justnana wrote on Jul 23, 2008 10:51 PM:

" tired of..."don't attack his morals." OMG are you kidding me? It's about his morals! Coach...Youth Pastor? He knew what he was doing. "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 23, 2008 10:53 PM:

" To Tiredofcomplainingnapkins, Sandler took advantage of his position of authority as a coach and religious leader. He used his influence to commit an act that's criminal in this State, not allowed by his employer, and a disgrace to his church. What he did was a HUGE societal and moral "No-no". The girls involved, obviously are still bothered about all this even though 10 years have passed. That's why they pressed charges. Oh, and serving only 9 months in jail is a slap in the face to the entire community. "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 23, 2008 11:33 PM:

" To kdbk, the rest of the world is more enlightened than America. You proved my point by saying someone has to be 18. People act like as soon as someone turns 18 everything about them changes, there personality, there judgements, everything. But the fact is age is just a number and it doesn't accuratley reflect peoples personality. I personally know families in Mexico where the girls become married and pregnant at 14 sometimes with men much older than them. Thats the way life is because these women are old enough to have babies. And to Justana you said he knew what he was doing, Well it sounds like they knew what they were doing too and didn't put a stop to it. To Markmiwords, true he did break the law and should be punished for that, he should be fired from his job for breaking there rules and the churches rules. But to treat him and punish him like he forceably raped them and is some sort of monster isn't right. The guy who shot into the house in the previous article is a monster, The guy who stabbed the napa man to death is a monster, People who sell drugs to kids are monsters. He had a lapse in judgement by breaking the law but doesn't need to be considered a monster, or a perv. "

skippert wrote on Jul 24, 2008 7:34 AM:

" Unbelieveable!! "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:52 AM:

" "Unbelievable " is right....

Those same people must support the priests who have molested kids for decades too.

Some of these posts express morals that give me whiplash when I read them. We have to hold our kids close, and protect them through education. You never know what your neighbor is thinking about your child when they smile at them. Youngsters are so easily seduced by sexual predators.

Scary...!!! "

Paisano wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:55 AM:

" 109823, Any comments on this mans 9 month sentence for lewd acts upon a child? I'm curious to see if you will be blaming this on immigration. "

napamama wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:12 AM:

" The victims were 15 and 16! That's not two days from turning 18. A child who is sexually involved with an adult who is in a position of authority is NOT ABLE to give consent!!!

Pedophiles groom and befriend their victims. It's the child's fault? The child started it? Don't buy it!

Wake up - many pedophiles are educated, polite and friendly. They are doctors, lawyers, politicians, etc. and are in all walks of life. That does not make it ok to harm a child. (The filter wouldn't let me use the word that starts with an m) "

selim wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:41 AM:

" tiredofcomplain...trotting out "how they do things in other countries" is nonsense. Should we allow caste-based slavery because it's acceptable in Niger and Mauritania? Why don't we ban women from driving because that's "the way of life" in Saudi Arabia? Oh, and marrying 14 year-olds is now magically ok because you "personally know" families in Mexico who marry off their daughters to older men...most likely because their abject poverty provides them with no other option.

While I agree that 18 is just a number...an arbitrary age...it's still the best general period in life for counting someone as an adult. And it's that way in 95% of the Western world. A "mature" 16 year-old is still someone who can just barely get their driver's license. And anyone over, say, 20, who is seriously interested in a 16 year-old is a predator, pure and simple. This is the same sort of person you see hanging out in bars in Thailand and Cambodia for "younger pursuits". Oh wait, it's the "way of life" there, so it's cool. Right? Gary Glitter called, he wants his moral compass back. "

NAPAGIRLNOMORE wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:43 AM:

" tiredof, under 18 yrs. old is legally a child,18 and over is an adult. its not about the how the person changes when they turn 18,its the law that changes,im sure you already know that.you keep bringing up other countries and how young girls are their who marry and have babies and so on,we are talking about america,not mexico or anywhere else.we are not talking about marriage either,were are talking about a 33 yr.old man taking advantage of a MINOR. illigal in AMERICA.yes we all make mistakes,but,i never made one that is going to scar a child for the rest of thier life.america is a free country,youre free to leave if you dont like the rules. "

Native74 wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:50 AM:

" In Utah, 16 is the legal age limit to get married so you don't have to go outside of the country! The reason I know this? As an employer we had to prove the legitimacy of a marriage between a 55yr old to a 17yr old... As much as we didn't approve of the marriage, as an employer we could not justify not hiring him (discrimination laws).

I still don't think what happened here is right by any means, but wanted to show the inconsistencies in our own country. "

hudds5 wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:19 AM:

" What is truly upsetting about this case is the fact that the legal system had an opportunity to make an example of Sandler but failed to do so. Sandler was in a position of trust and he took advantage of that trust for his own sexual gratification. He is a predator and should NOT be allowed to have contact with any children. Since he is not going to do the time he deserves, hopefully, the conditions of his probation is strict enough to keep our community safe. "

mykdgirl54 wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:20 AM:

" Im glad to see Mr. Sandler is once again thinking of himself..not wanting to put "his family" through anything - and that being the ONLY reason he took the plea.. Mr. Sandler how about a little acknowledgement and sincere appaulogy to your victims and their families and what you've now put THEM through!

And here's something to ponder while you serve your "sentance" 15 and 16 year old girls sometimes say and do a lot of inappropriate things - but not every man is there to exploit that!!! The reason why the law says what you did was illegal is because despite outward apperances those girls are still CHILDREN! Their brains are not fully formed yet, and they don't fully understand the ramifications of what they are say and doing. AS AN ADULT and EDUCATOR/MENTOR/COACH you should know this first and foremost!

Oh, and how about an appology to the community who's trust you robbed! "

Herschels' wife wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:38 AM:

" Ok. Enough is enough. I've been silent for too long now. People, you do not have the facts that the Judge, the DA and the probation had. Why do you think it is okay for you to call Herschel a "monster" and a "perv" based on what you read? Don't be so narrow-minded. He did not force himself on anyone, or sexually abuse for that matter. The girls admitted it was consensual. Don't get me wrong - he broke the law, he was wrong. He made a huge mistake and he has to pay for it now. But he is not a perv!
Many people here say how disgusting it is that he blames the victims - he NEVER did that! He already suffered more then u can imagine - he lost 2 jobs, his career, name and reputation were dragged through the mud and ruined! His family suffered a huge deal. He has to register for the rest of his life. He can't take his son to school or a park. He will have to explain himself to everybody now. He is going to jail.
Another thing - stop calling me stupid and naive - he did not brain-wash me. I know the situation and i am still here! As for Herschel's supporters - our friends knew the truth from the very beginning. That's why they still stand by his side!
Stop wasting your time by commenting on other people's lives! Go and try to touch at least 1 life the way Herschel influenced dozens! He is punished enough! The story is over. Move on.
P.S. I will not reply to any of your comments. "

wipemedown wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:52 AM:

" What would Jesus do in a situation like this? "

lsw1969 wrote on Jul 24, 2008 12:27 PM:

" Tiredof.... lttle girls are menstruating as young as 9 and 10 years old. "Old enough to breed" from your indecent point of view. The physical body does not guage maturity, maturity is an emotional state of mind. Please do not try to get people fired up at the expense of the innocent. "

Seriously? wrote on Jul 24, 2008 12:41 PM:

" Really!??? NOBODY is gonna comment on that priceless sentence!?? "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:06 PM:

" I am sorry for you Mrs. Sandler, but even the worst of criminals in prisons detest child molesters. I am sure your husband is a wonderful fella, and I'm glad he has no contact with any of the children that I know.

The last time I heard a rant like that was by the mother of a serial killer. She said, "But he was always such a nice boy."

Unfortunately, you also have made the perpetrator out to be the victim. Those bad bad girls. What were they thinking? They should be in jail, right...???

Good grief....... "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:19 PM:

" Lsw1969, thats ture, maturity is a state of mind, but maturity doesn't take effect the second you turn 18 either. So why don't you tell me what the time is that someone is mature enough? Sounds to me like at age 15 and 16 you know what your doing and you know right from wrong. "

NapaNana wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:20 PM:

" Wow! Not an animal......not a perv......not a pig....not using his position as a mentor to give himself the feeling of power over peoples lives......not having a whoopie of a time with a couple of hormone driven emotional teenagers? This is scarey to think that some of you are not grossed out by this man. A MAN had SEX with CHILDREN!
Should he be forgiven? Possibly. But first he truely has to be SORRY. I think that the only thing he is sorry for is that these girls ratted on him after all this time. But none of us can/will/should EVER forget this mans weaknesses...so kindly put.
And for as far as commenting on other peoples lives.....this IS ALL about OUR LIVES here. Nasty Men should not be allowed to be around innocent children. Sorry about the Park and not being able to go to School functions or whatever. HE ruined ALL of your lives. Not us. "

formernapagirl wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:21 PM:

" Mrs Herschel I honestly hope for your sake that your husband doesn't "crave attention" once again at some point in your marriage and repeat this same awful "mistake". It appears even at the age of 33 he did not fully grasp right from wrong and even now is still unable to accept responsibility for his actions. "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:31 PM:

" The problem I have with everyones comments on here is that you keep saying he raped or took advatage of these women, thats not what happend, he had consensual relations with women under 18. Your treating him like a man who would pull children into a bathroom at a park and rape them, thats not what this is about. And don't call those women "children" there not children. Just a few weeks ago the two men from american canyon who shot and killed someone were on trial and sentenced as adults even though they were 16 and 17. The reasoning was they were old enough that they knew right from wrong and what they did was wrong and should be tried as adults. Were should the line for maturity be set at? "

John Richards wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:33 PM:

" In several states the age of consent is only 14. Who is to say that California's age limit is correct, and the other states are wrong? "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:55 PM:

" The line of maturity has to be set somewhere. Otherwise, 10-year old's could drive, and drink too. 18 is generally considered the age of responsibility.

Being 'flattered' by the attention of cute love starved teenagers is simply a joke. Being mature enough for a 33-year old to know right from wrong is what matters.

Men gain experience at seducing women as they grow older, and to use that experience to ply sex from inexperienced kids way too easy.

The worst part is blaming the victims, and pretending that the perpetrator is now the victim.

It's a good thing for the perp that one of those girls wasn't MY daughter.... "

1napanow wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:58 PM:

" Herschel's wife: I am sorry for the pain and suffering that you and your family have gone through. I have a family member who committed a heartless crime, seemingly out of character for him. He confessed to us and we supported him through the criminal proceedings. His case was not accurately represented by news sources and we suffered through that as well. He went to jail, is now paying restitution to the victim, but he struggles with the consequences of his actions everyday. Other people were involved with what happened, but only he is being held to account. Is that unfair? No! He definitely did wrong and needs to suffer the consequences. What other people did is immaterial.
I understand from news reports that you and Herschel are Christians. My family member is too. The message Jesus brought from the Father is that there is a Path to forgiveness and restoration. The first step is to confess (without reservation), then accept His forgiveness and through His power begin the sanctification process.
I think that the community can find forgiveness for Herschel, but the qualification of the confession is holding him back from starting the restoration.
It is perversely unfair that you and your children are suffering for all of this and I am very sorry for you. Please guard your heart from bitterness. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 24, 2008 2:14 PM:

" tiredof; my wife being a teacher, while receiving her education and training was taught not to innapropriately touch or be left alone with other children. Just a matter of her training, don't you suppose that they teach every person pursuing a career with authority over other people, especially minor children, the same thing? For your information consensual sex with a minor is also called statutory rape. It is wrong, it is criminal.
Herschel's wife, we have every right to comment about our anger and frustration towards your husband and his light sentence. Everyone of us know a 15-16 year old that we don't want near someone like your husband, that doesn't have the self control to say no and keep his pants zipped up! A person in his former position knows going in what it will cost him, only in his case he is getting off easy. You cannot lay the blame on the children. And don't bother responding to my comment, the majority here are in agreement and enough has been said! "

napamama wrote on Jul 24, 2008 2:30 PM:

" Ok, tocn, we get it. He didn't rape them, he didn't tie them up in a shack and torture them. We could go on and on. Yes, there are degrees of heinous actions. No, that does not mean that a teacher/coach/youth pastor having sex with a 15 year old is just a little ole minor infraction.

Again, children ARE NOT ABLE to give consent! Even a young teen, though she may have sexual feelings, does not have the maturity or development to make a responsible decision in regards to having a sexual relationship with a much older adult male who has a position of authority over her. These girls were vulnerable. And he knowingly took advantage of that.

That is disgusting, wrong and deserving of far more punishment than what has been dealt out.

I am also about as disgusted with his defenders. "

707jng wrote on Jul 24, 2008 2:47 PM:

" Let's see if this comment gets posted... my last one must have been too mean or something.
to Herschels Wife: I sympathize with what you and your family are going thru I really do, but he did have sex with 2 minors. He should have gotten a lot more time in prison not county jail. It's sick what he did and he should have known better. I hope you and your family get thru this. "

urte wrote on Jul 24, 2008 2:54 PM:

" Hmmm, this is more interesting than a "Dime Store" novel. All this talk about maturity of mind and body!
At 15 and 16 ...although your body might be ready to produce off spring...your mind is far from mature...granted your hormones are on overdrive and these young girls have "crushes" to a point of "if he does not love me I am going to die"...!
Also..in my mind ...it appears that the young ladies today are far more sexual ...the influences of TV and movies etc. certainly have that effect...BUT...it does not excuse a thirty something adult to take advantage...HE knew better and there are consequences for every action.

What I find interesting is the current phenomenon with these female teachers having sex with male students...and at least on one occasion the teacher was found to be too good looking to go to jail...Huh...am I missing something here...?

You take advantage of a kid ...male or female ...you go to jail...end of story...!

I don't think the sentence was long enough...he got off easy...! "

Skip M. wrote on Jul 24, 2008 3:08 PM:

" Mrs. Herschels, I for one do not think your husband is a perv. In fact, he is my hero. I see lots of cute 15 and 16 year olds every day, and often wonder how I could get them to have consensual sex with me. In addition, how can I have this happen and not wind up doing 15-20 years in the big house with Bubba and the Killer Queens, let alone have my wife stay by my side. So the trick here is to become a wrestling coach, and a youth pastor.

Heck, as a wrestling coach, I might be able to get some young stud muffin attracted to me as well. And it would all be good because I would be this pillar of the community.

I really appreciate your enlightenment here. Had I not read your post, I would have thought this was a case of a good old American double standard. "

crusherfan wrote on Jul 24, 2008 3:10 PM:

" to the wife,i will keep it polite as my other comments have not made it thru.You have chosen to defend a man who has admitted to being a child molester.Some relate child molesters to to monsters and perverts.enjoy spending your life with and defending a CONVICTED,ADMITTED,CHILD MOLESTER.I am sure that the facts that we are not aware of make it easier for you to accept. "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 24, 2008 3:47 PM:

" To Urte, so if a mind is not mature at age 15 or 16 does that mean all those convicted of murder at that age in adult courts and sentence to 25 to life, should they be set free or sentences overturned? We as a society can set would we feel as an appropriate age to consider someone mature but we must stick to that age when dealing with all aspects of the law "

AmCanResident wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:10 PM:

" Wow 9 months. Who is this DA? Judge? When are they up for re-election? Please someone post their names? I have 2 girls myself and this makes me sick. Being still new to the area, I wonder if he was a colored person, would he only recieve 9 months? "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 24, 2008 5:08 PM:

" mykdgirl54 wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:20 AM: ".....and how about an appology to the community who's trust you robbed! "

I'm sure most noticed, but I'm gonna say it out loud: Herschels' wife didn't apologize to the community, or the victims. She makes no apology for her husband's actions. She's justifying what he did.

Her directive to "move on" seems that she wants an apology from the community. for her husband being victimized.

Here's NVR's chance to get "the rest of the story". If we had a decent DA, he would give a statement to the NVR as to why this sentence is so out of kilter. I'm betting that he can't, because it was one of those back-room deals that we all hate. "

crusherfan wrote on Jul 24, 2008 5:46 PM:

" Dwayne,
BRAVO!! "

mgfenske wrote on Jul 24, 2008 6:13 PM:

" THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS CONSENSUAL SEX BETWEEN A MINOR AND AN ADULT!
The situation is similar to a minor entering into a contract. In most states a person under the age of 18 cannot enter into a contract. If they attempt to do so it is NOT an invalid contract ... no contact ever existed.
We also don't allow minors to enlist in the armed services ... they can't make the required contract, "

newmom wrote on Jul 24, 2008 6:16 PM:

" Mr. sandler did apologize to the victims, the families and the community. I was in court on the day of sentencing and he took full responsibilty. The judge acknowledged his remorse. perhaps actually being in court you would have more facts. The paper chose to print what they wanted to print. "

NapaNana wrote on Jul 24, 2008 7:52 PM:

" Again.....WOW! I'm sorry I got caught. I'll just bet he did say what the Judge wanted to hear in court.......There are only ONE set of facts here. Adults having sex with children is AGAINST THE LAW! It doesn't matter the "reason" or the "rest of the facts". Seriously now.....some of you folks just don't have your heads fastened on straight. "

Sues wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:22 PM:

" My name is Sues. I started Warriors for Innocence. I monitor pedophiles and child predators online daily. I’ve seen the discussions they have in their private, member-only forums that I am undercover in.

Pedophiles feel that children can consent to sex. They don’t see it as abuse as long as the child “consented”. After all, there’s nothing wrong with a child falling in love with a 33 year old like Sandler, right?

What pedophiles and their sympathizers ignore, is the law, and the responsibility of adults. Just because a teenager is “coming on” to an adult, or “flirting” with him/her, does not make it ok for that adult to go along with it. The adult has the responsibility to say “stop” and to take control of the situation in order to PREVENT any inappropriate behavior from happening. This does NOT mean its ok for the adult to go along with the flirting and have sex with a teen or child.

Child molesters often convince themselves that what they do to children is not wrong or harmful. Telling themselves that children should be free to have sex, or that they really like it, are ways the molester justifies their abuse. They use the excuse of physical puberty to justify taking advantage of an immature child.

The molester’s popularity in the community will cover up behaviors that should never be tolerated. Over 95 percent of child molesters are typically well loved by those around them.

After a molester is exposed, it is common for adults to say things like, “He was the last guy I would suspect to do something like this.”

Sandler is no different. I only hope that there aren’t any other victims out there from the past 10 years… "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:41 PM:

" Thank you Sues for your online work. In your educated opinion, is a pedophile always a pedophile? Can he be fully "rehabilitated"? Is 9 months sufficient time to rehabilitate? "

Sues wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:11 PM:

" Hi MarkMiwords. According to psychologists, child molesters and pedophiles are not cured. They need “community based” monitoring to prevent re-offending. In other words, their family and friends have to watch them 24/7 so that they don’t fall back into whatever old habits can cause them to re-offend ( It won’t let me use the “m” word here). Much like an alcoholic, child molesters must stay away from not only children, but also situations that they know will trigger their urges.
One example given during a lecture I attended, was of a molester who would leave his job and drive around in the evening in his truck looking for victims to grab. He would drive around for hours and then finally work up the nerve to “pick up” a girl/victim. One of the ways he and his family prevent him from re-offending is that he must come home directly from work. If he is driving around aimlessly, then that is a sign that he is “in trouble”. Personally, that doesn’t sound like much of a cure or guarantee to me.
Most pedophiles like themselves and consider pedophilia a “sexual orientation”, not a problem. They honestly feel they are being discriminated against by society and that the AOC (Age Of Consent) needs to either be lowered or abolished.
I am not a psychologist, so I won’t address your answer about 9 months being long enough to “rehabilitate”.
Personally, 9 months is a pathetic sentence. Sandler was in a position of authority and violated his victims’ trust. That is wrong on so many levels and can cause so much pain and damage to a child. "

formernapamom wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:47 PM:

" To tiredofcomplainingnapkins if you think the rest of the world is so much more "enlightened" than America when it comes to adults having sexual contact with children then do all of us a favor and leave America. Also, it is ridiculous for you to compare 16 year olds committing murder to adults having sex with minors. Consent to sex and knowing right from wrong when taking another human beings life cannot be compared. You are comparing 16 &17 years olds who committed MURDER to 15 & 16 year olds girls who committed NO CRIME.
A 15 or 16 year old female is still naive and easily manipulated, especially when they have not learned to control their hormones and crave attention and become blinded when they receive attention from a male. Just because a female can reproduce does not mean they are competent enough to consent to sexual contact. Our daughter's are not here to "breed" and they are not women, they are CHILDREN. Most 15 or 16 year old's lack common sense to make RESPONSIBLE decisions. Stop throwing your 17 years old and 364 days age comparison out there. Two years makes a huge difference when it comes to our children learning responsible decision making. "

doright wrote on Jul 25, 2008 12:00 AM:

" WIPE MEDOWN; Jesus would forgive him. If a man repents and changes with Christ`s forgivness, who are we to judge. Throw a stone if you are with out sin. ''No man can know what is in the heart of another. Judge not for you to will be judged. Read the "Word'' "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 25, 2008 8:13 AM:

" doright; I believe in forgiveness and sure if Sandler is penitent as far as I am concerned he is forgiven. Of course penitence includes sorrow for your action and determination not to follow that urging any longer. I also believe that forgiving and forgetting is seldom possible. You may forgive someone for raping your daughter (one of many scenarios), but will you allow that same someone to be alone with your daughter ever again? Only if you really don't care for your daughters well being. I believe Christ asked and I am paraphrasing, "if you knew when the theif was coming would you leave your house unprepared?" Generally a person is looses all trust when they are accused and convicted of such crime. Forgiveness is not so difficult; trust takes time, effort, accountability, communication, reparations and perhaps other things such as counselling. A person that does not make such judgments or discriminations will likely fall prey to the wolf in sheeps clothing! "

wipemedown wrote on Jul 25, 2008 8:33 AM:

" word. "

Native74 wrote on Jul 25, 2008 8:51 AM:

" My second term working with high schoolers I was propositioned by one student in particular on numerous occasions. Once they turned 18 they really thought it was okay to ask me out again and became more aggressive/persistent when I declined. It really made me feel uncomfortable and so I made it very clear vocally/publicly so no one thought otherwise. As mature and attractive as the student was I couldn't get out of my mind that they were still in high school!

At 33 Herschel should have done the same (I was 26 at the time and knew what was right!)

Skip M...keep it rolling - I needed that this Friday morning. :) "

Dwayne wrote on Jul 25, 2008 8:58 AM:

" doright wrote on Jul 25, 2008 12:00 AM:
" WIPE MEDOWN; Jesus would forgive him. If a man repents and changes with Christ`s forgivness, who are we to judge. Throw a stone if you are with out sin. ''No man can know what is in the heart of another. Judge not for you to will be judged. Read the "Word'' "

Oh swell. Let's let Charles Manson out of prison, abandon all our courts, and send all perps to church instead of prosecuting and punishing them.

That's how Jesus would run things, right...??? "

Paisano wrote on Jul 25, 2008 9:53 AM:

" 9 months in jail? WOW!!! The pain and suffering that Mr. Sandler has had is punishment enough I guess. "

Paisano wrote on Jul 25, 2008 9:54 AM:

" I wonder how much jail time a strawberry vender would get for committing the same crime? "

MarshaMarsha wrote on Jul 25, 2008 12:15 PM:

" Omg, reading the response from the perp's wife brings a word to mind: PATHETIC!

Did this guy know he was breaking the law? Yep.

Did he know that if he got caught he would be prosecuted? Yep.

Did he know that a sex-crime conviction would make 2 jobs, a career, his name, and his reputation into complete toast? Yep.

Ma'am, those are the only facts in this case that I need to know. No support or sympathy here, he made his own choice.

This guy knew exactly what he was doing and how much he would "suffer" if/when he was caught. He's definitely not an idiot, but he sure is dumb. He did learn one of life's biggest lessons though: Before you decide to do the crime, be absolutely sure that you (and your family) can pay the dues. "

WHY wrote on Jul 25, 2008 12:44 PM:

" You know I wonder why everyone is quick to judge. Here is a guy that two girls wanted to do something with the coach on their own will. This wasn't anything brutal, he didn't tie them up or force them to do something they didn't want to do. I am a father of a 12 yr old girl and have friends that have daughters that are 15-17 and I heard for the first time that I was a dilf. Does anyone know what a dilf is? Well let me tell you all.

Teenage girls call dads a dilf and it stands for Dads I'd like to F... I will let you figure out the last word. Now if these girls are already talking to there friends about this I am sure it would be a notch in the old belt for these girls to tell there friends that they had sex with a Father. So I ask, if they are willing to do this ( and I'm not condoning what Hershal did ) why is he solely to blame.

We are parents(Adults) and we should know better. Are you really involved with your child and what they are doing sexually these days? For those of you who have daughters, ask them if they have ever heard of a lipstick party. If they are willing to tell you, you would be shocked.

Going to prison isn't his sentence, his sentence is going to be that he can't enjoy being with his child at parks, baseball games, gymnastics, because he will be labeled as an offender. This will be his prison for the rest of his life. "

14obama wrote on Jul 25, 2008 1:26 PM:

" Hey Crybabies ! Why don't you make some noise about Bush and Cheney. They've allowed your friends and family members to be killed for oil. Simply Greed ! You've got your priorities all messed up ! Tell congress to hang those responsible ! "

Two Cents wrote on Jul 25, 2008 1:49 PM:

" WHY... I completely agree with you. Im a teacher, so let me first say, that it should be an absolute gut reaction when a student comes on to you to make it immediately VERY clear how inapproproate that is. I say student, not child, because some of you are acting as if this is all about age. Its not just age, its MORALS! If I am a 25 yr old high school teacher, and my 18 yr old TA comes on to me... ITS STILL WRONG. Regardless of the fact that they are of legal age. Its sad to see so many of these posts going on and on about the age of these girls. Just the sheer fact that they were students, should have been enough for him to keep his hands off.
As for what WHY posted... some of you probably have NO idea what your teenage girls are watching and aspiring to be. And already doing for that matter. Does the series Girls Gone Wild ring a bell to anyone? MTV, VH1, and E! television all portray to young people that the wilder and crazier you are, the better. Morals, values, self decency have all been thrown out the window.
Parents, my advice: impart the importance of self respect to your kids. You wouldnt believe some of the conversations Ive had to have with girls at school after hearing a rumour about what they did at a party over a weekend. And you may think that these are "bad girls"... oh no! These are good kids from good families... some of them colleagues, neighbors. Nobody's exempt these days from impact of the media on our young people. "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 25, 2008 1:58 PM:

" To formernapamom, The point i'm trying to make is if your going to charge 16 years old with murder in adult court because they are considered mature enough to know right from wrong then you must reason that these 16 year olds were mature enough to make the decision to have consensual sex with herschel. I'm trying to show the incontinence with are judical system. If were going to make 18 the magic number for when someone is mature enough to make decisions on there own and know right from wrong then we must hold that to be true with all decisions made by minors, otherwise its meaningless and double standards like this case arise to cause major problems "

NapaNana wrote on Jul 25, 2008 2:17 PM:

" Ya know....I'm starting to wonder here....just HOW LONG did the Mrs. know about these little trists of hubby's? For someone that recently found out her husband was messing around with kids....she sure seems alright with it.
Girls can be very naughty! It still doesn't give this fallen hero an excuse for what he participated in. "

John Richards wrote on Jul 25, 2008 3:25 PM:

" I would like to know how many single adult males here are ready to throw the first stone? If the age of consent was 14 (as it is in some other states), and a gorgeous 15 year old sat next to you in a darkened theater, and started making advances, would you resist? "

Funnyyou wrote on Jul 25, 2008 3:50 PM:

" 9 month jail sentence. No wonder crime is rising in this once beautiful town. A slap on the wrist for molesting two minors. "

Funnyyou wrote on Jul 25, 2008 3:55 PM:

" John Richards, We are not in another state, We're in California and California law states that a person under the age of 18 is considered a minor. But to answer your question. If a gorgeous 15 year sat next to me in a darkened theater and made advances towards me, I would resist. Why? Because it's immoral and illegal. If you had a 15 year old daughter, would you like a grown man to have consensual relations with her? "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 25, 2008 4:12 PM:

" Funnyyou, John Richards makes a good point, you said you would resist because its immoral and illegal. True it is illegal in California, but what makes it immoral? Are your morals a reflection of societies laws, or your own personal opinion. Say you lived in a state like Utah your entire life where the consenting age is 14, would you be ok with it because its legal or would your morals still be the same as they are now? And since it is legal in Utah does that mean there laws and the lawmakers are immoral? Just food for thought. "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:10 PM:

" Sues, thanks for the insight!. Mrs. Sandler, please read Sues second comment. It does offer valuable insight to your husband's problem. I'm sorry for Herschel's family. You weren't around when all this was happening, but you are victims too. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:14 PM:

" I'm just curious, what state has 14 for the age of consent?
Several of you are missing the point. Sandler was in a position of trust and authority. That was his career choice and he received education and training. He was taught/trained not to do what he did, not to even give an inappropriate appearance, not to mention what the consequences would be.
I used to coach softball and I had a fourteen year old girl telling all of her friends that I hugged her. The only time I ever put my arm around her was an attempt to help her with her swing, and of course we were never alone. The next thing I knew one of the parent's called me to let me know that the other parent's were wondering if they should inform the police. This was at least ten years ago. I quit coaching. It's just not worth it. I wouldn't allow myself to be caught alone around any minor under any circumstances, unless he/she was my own. I have had no training at any time except for the school of hard knocks. This guy knew going in! And it wasn't a false accusation.
John Richards you are out of your mind. And you have been in the situation and didn't resist, it's only a matter of time before you will be the one we are talking about. Keep your pants zipped up, all the way. Determine to resist. A few minutes of pleasure can f up the rest of your life! "

MarshaMarsha wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:17 PM:

" It's the law, John Richards. California State Law.

The law is not based on maturity.
The law is not based on consent.
The law is not based on who made the first advances.
The law in California is not based on anything other than age.
Period.

Your argument is pointless. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:47 PM:

" The legal age of consent in Utah is not 14! It's 16 for females and 18 for males. I'm not sure but I think the 16 year old female has to have parental consent until she is 18.
John Richards, I meant to say "if you have been in the situation...
Sorry, didn't mean to make an accusation, I don't even know you. Other than that, I meant everything I said. "

14obama wrote on Jul 25, 2008 6:07 PM:

" I'd ask him if it was worth it. I used to be approached by these young "bubblegummers" and it took alot to fight off the urge. Nowadays they seem to be making a joke of getting older guys aroused. Be honest with your kids and talk to them ! "

rage against wrote on Jul 25, 2008 6:46 PM:

" tired of complaining,
Simply put, murdering someone and having sex with them are two very different things. Especially when the sex is consensual. If a 15 or 16 year old is dangerous enough to kill another human, there exists quite a different set of problems within that individual, as opposed to a 15 or 16 year old who will have consensual sex with an older person who (in their own words) "Knows it is wrong".
Whether the teenagers know right from wrong is irrelevant. It is the severity of their actions that must be judged.
Does this help you understand just how ridiculous it sounds when you compare a murder to a consensual sexual encounter.
Also, The legal age of 18 is arbitrary, but will making it 16 or 21 make a real difference. I can understand your frustration with our judicial system, but I urge you to find a better one in all the world. "

mafi wrote on Jul 25, 2008 7:07 PM:

" I went to High School w/ a really nice guy- seriously. He became a H.S. teacher, had sexual relations w/ two 15yr olds and he got 6yrs in PRISON!!! 9mo's??!! Come on DA!! When I was 16 I flirted w/ the teachers and some back, but as a responsible adult you make sure you're never in a tempting situation, left alone or TAKE THEM TO THE MOVIES!!!!!! barf! "

sammy wrote on Jul 25, 2008 8:00 PM:

" Herschels Wife Wrot e : Go and try to touch at least 1 life the way Herschel influenced dozens! He is punished enough! The story is over. Move on.

Now that was rich,......just really rich.
I am shocked that you do not have more empathy for the girls. Trust me, if it was your daughter,.... you'd understand. You are on the side of the perp,.... and perp he is. "

incognito wrote on Jul 25, 2008 8:45 PM:

" I am still curious where were the parents of this girls??

It is true that he is at fault due to his position at that time but some of it could have been prevented on both sides. What kind of parenting did this girls have?

I see a serious lack of parenting skills in many of today's children!! Many come from so called good families!

Like someone pointed out here, do you know what your teens are doing? Do you know where they actually hang out?

Lipstick party? Had not heard that in awhile!!

Educate your children and be open to listening to them! "

John Richards wrote on Jul 25, 2008 9:43 PM:

" MarshaMarsha, yes, my argument is pointless if you always wear blinders and have no idea what goes on in the other 49 states. My point is that California's age of consent is arbitrary, and much higher than most of the other states. Let's set aside for a moment the other factors (the perp being married and the girl's coach). If the same event had happened in a state where the age of consent is 15, he would not have committed a crime. "

John Richards wrote on Jul 25, 2008 10:07 PM:

" I don't understand why a person who is supposedly well informed is posting here about pedophilia. According to the official definition, pedophilia is a condition in which an adult is sexually attracted to pre-pubertal children -- those aged 13 years or under. Pedophiles are actually turned off by teenagers who show obvious signs of development. So, there was no pedophilia involved in this particular case. "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Jul 26, 2008 1:37 AM:

" To rage against, thats true murdering someone is the a real big deal, maybe the biggest. Having sex with someone is not a big deal at all. Thats why I don't see what all the fuss is about. Sex in America is treated like a bad, dirty thing. The rest of the world embraceses it. Seeing how USA is only 230 years old and the rest of the worlds civilizations are a couple of thousands years old i'll take there word for it since they are more enlightened and advanced than us "

pharper wrote on Jul 26, 2008 1:49 AM:

" I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this.

As a person who knows children who were abused as children, I'd liek to say that the courts should have locked this creep up and thrown away the key.

However, there's another part of me that wonders about the teenagers. To me, this situation is a lot like the ones we hear about in the news involving myspace. Girls discuss sex with men who have explicitly told them how much older they are, invite them to their houses, and are surprised when they get taken advantage of--this isn't to say the men aren't TOTALLY at fault, but I do have to wonder what young person exercising ANY common sense gets into that situation. And, I forget who said it, but they had a point: recently, a 16- and 17-year-old were prosecuted as adults--what makes them so much more mature than these girls? Is it something to do with the fact that they're female? Women and girls mature much faster than boys do, so it's hard to judge whether or not they were "children."

Nevertheless, what this guy did is illegal. As an adult, he should have exercised better control over his "urges," and ignored any "come-ons" these girls were giving him. What he did was an abuse of power and of his station. "

cellsitegod wrote on Jul 26, 2008 6:36 AM:

" Lets be real here. What was the girl like back then? Was she promiscuous with teens her age? How far did she take the advances (if she did the advances)before he gave in?
Ten years ago if it was reported he should have gotten the maximum sentence. But, ten years later when this probably came out in therapy we need to cruxify the guy? We think a 16 year old is adult enough to drive a dangerous car that can kill someone but not have the common sense to figure out having sex with her coach is wrong? It's probably more like a therapist blaming current problems on that incident and encouraging the girl to report it or the therapist themself reporting it. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 26, 2008 7:00 AM:

" The age of consent is 16 in about 35 states, 18 in eight states, 14 in only one state and 17 in the rest. The state with 14 being the age of concent is South Carolina. Perhaps you men that have no intentions of obeying the laws in California should move there. But wait, you better read their laws, some conditions may apply. Like if you are ten years or more older than the 16 year old sex is unlawful, that seems to be a fairly common part of the law. I didn't read all of them, but I skimmed quite a few. So in many of those states with a 16 year age of consent, Sandler's actions would still be criminal, factor in his position of trust/authority and I think he would be in trouble in every state, more than 9 months in most states.
Tiredof: Your being silly! The US is among the world leaders in sexual promiscuity. Oh sure there are countries where you can marry a thirteen year old, but you must marry her and take care of her and her children. Is that the kind of "no big deal" sex you want to have? There are also countries that prostitute children for money, shall we go down that path? Why not you go spend your money in their country, and stay there. "

14obama wrote on Jul 26, 2008 10:11 AM:

" Marine1/1 is as bad as this guy for saying what he said. An eye for an eye don't get it ! Some people these days let out the clutch before putting the car in gear.Or,engage the mouth before putting the brain in gear.
Think first ! "

bloodagar wrote on Jul 26, 2008 2:14 PM:

" Newprtbeachgrl:
"Everyone does things they wish they didn't...haven't you?"
Answer: Well, I haven't wanted to have sex with a 15 year old since I was 15. Then again, at 15 we are all easily manipulated. I would say he is a predator.

Herschels' wife:
"Go and try to touch at least 1 life the way Herschel influenced dozens! He is punished enough! The story is over. Move on."
We know he touched at least 2 girls lives (no pun intended). You claim you won't respond...but I know you are glued to the computer. Attention seeking not just by proxy anymore.
His story of being a predator won't be over...Megan's Law will prevent that.

(I remember living upvalley and when a predator was released back into the community, neighborhoods were kept very well informed. Posters came out with pictures and list of offenses.)

He won't be punished enough for bending the antennae of girls under his "influence". He will be watched by neighbors and talked about on street corners. If the wife stays with him...she'll need thicker skin. "

John Richards wrote on Jul 26, 2008 6:13 PM:

" Thinking back when I was 15, if I had flirted with an a teacher in her mid-twenties, and she returned the favor, I don't think it would have scarred my psyche one bit. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 26, 2008 7:12 PM:

" John Richards; I'm fairly convinced by now that, even though you may be in the state of denial, you have a scarred psyche. Unless you're just trying to get attention with your reckless attitude toward minor children, you need help man! I'm sure that Sandler would be better off without your support or your approval of his past. NVR set up a counselling help fund for this guy and I'll contribute. "

kevin wrote on Jul 26, 2008 8:15 PM:

" The sad truth is; if the minors had been boys and the teacher a female (as has been the case in numerous situations of late) the punishment would have been much less and there would have been no public outrage... "

lucylutoo wrote on Jul 26, 2008 9:15 PM:

" I can't believe what I am reading here! The behavior of the victims, and the parenting they received should not even be a factor here! They are not responsible for this man’s behavior. Please, I would like to ask those of you who are talking about the girls and their parents to go to www.ca.gov and read California Penal Code Section 11164 to 11165.6. After doing so, I would like to know if you feel differently about this whole thing! I for one am disgusted and shocked at the way this County, and its employees who are suppose to be advocates for children, will at times throw them aside, or so it seems, in order to scratch someone’s back. "

theman wrote on Jul 26, 2008 10:00 PM:

" And why are two 15 and 16 year old girls having CONSENSUAL sex with a 33 year old...? "

Farmgirl wrote on Jul 27, 2008 8:16 AM:

" What he did was wrong absolutely, but I cannot quite paint him a monster. If these girls were under 11 I would call him really perverted. But anyone thinking these girls were totally innocent has not hung around high schools lately. Some of these girls are totally aggressive sexually and might be hard to put off. They dress like little sluts (not saying these 2 did - I do not know them - just a general comment) and I am not sure how teenage boys can study in school with the distraction. Yes, he should have put them off in his position as an authority figure - and probably called the parents to let them know their daughters were out of control - but I cannot call him a monster! "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 27, 2008 9:34 AM:

" "Theman", that is exactly my question, because I've been acquainted with Herschel since he moved to town, and I really can't figure out what the attraction was. Perhaps the girls were seeking attention, acceptance, love.....something we all long for. Perhaps they envisioned themselves in a loving, MARRIED relationship with someone, who wasn't married at the time? Young girls spend a lot of time dreaming about getting married. Notice he didn't marry either of these young girls? (you know, make "honest women of them!) That provides an insight into Sandler's frame of mind at the time. He took advantage of their youth and of their trust in him. It's possible he's changed in the last 10 years, but he was a creep and a perv. back then! He should be held accountable, and 9 months in Napa's deluxe county jail is nothing! "

bloodagar wrote on Jul 27, 2008 10:50 AM:

" FARMGIRL, you have a very valid point. Over the past few years I have noticed these young women are hyper aggressive sexually.
I recently overheard a conversation that truly made me blush regarding their sexual exploits. The texts are more than racy and the picture messages consists of baring it all.

As an adult, it makes me sick to my stomach...for an adult male in a position of authority over them, well... "

biLly wrote on Jul 27, 2008 11:12 AM:

" this is the most pathetic topic I have ever seen and a lot of you who try and blame the girls and garner sympathy for "the coach" or the Pastor" or Herschel,need just as much help as he does. To make excuses ...to say "we all make mistakes" is pathetic . He had oral sex with 15 year old girls that he was coaching and mentoring...what else does someone in such a position need to do to go to jail for awhile???
The same people that support this CREEP (including the DA and their PERVERTED JUSTICE)) and he is a CREEP .....should be behind bars for 6 months as well so they can reevaluate why this is SO WRONG. I hope all his supporters , his famliy etc.. just move out of town and go somewhere where they do tolerate this type of behavior.... oooohh I am sorry they already live somewhere WHERE IT IS TOLERATED,GOOD OLD NAPA...here where this is OBVIOUSLYT ok...Stay Herschel , Stay Herschel supporters please you are not that bad of a person/people.....I just threw up "

m8a5r4i7 wrote on Jul 27, 2008 11:31 AM:

" First of all, the girls knew what they were doing the whole time. From what i know these girls were like that with all boys and apperently a teacher too throughout high school. For them to come out 10 years later is ridiculous. It makes me wonder if they wanted money out this to pay college debts or something! These girls were old enough to know what they were doing! "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 27, 2008 1:41 PM:

" "m8a5r4i7", Are you saying you know the complainants, and they had bad reputations? Remember, St. Helena is a small town and gossip can run rampant. There isn't always fact behind gossip. Sometimes gossip is just wild and malicious lies, with no factual baisis at all. So my question is, what do you mean with your statement of "from what I know....."? Is this rumor, or did you know the girls? "

biLly wrote on Jul 27, 2008 6:27 PM:

" whatever m8a5r4i7...now the girls were sluts?? Are you kidding? that justifies Mr.Coach, Mr. Pastor's behavior...you have a screw loose lady. The problem with you and all the others is you want to defend a defenseless person....there is no defense for this guy...if there was it would have gone to trial...It boils down to one simple undeniable fact...the coach, the pastor , the mentor had sex with two teenagers...end of story go to jail and leave town...what a loser this guy and all his backers are....
some things do verge on the "unacceptable" and this is one of them. "

14obama wrote on Jul 27, 2008 8:38 PM:

" "Two Cents" said it like it is ! Read what she said,above. We,as plain ol human beings,are becoming more and more removed from the spiritual beings intended for us. Animals are much more in tune with life than we. Happiness is within,not out there ! Quit loving money and material things ! It's a waste of time and your serenity. "

wipemedown wrote on Jul 28, 2008 11:36 AM:

" 90 days is unreal......I spend more time in county for marijuana possesion......sad state of the justice system.... "

sammy wrote on Jul 28, 2008 1:08 PM:

" lol wipemedown, you still smokin :)

it's 9 months not 90 days :)

however I agree , 9 months is not long enough. "

rage against wrote on Jul 29, 2008 4:22 PM:

" tired of,
which civilization is it that you feel is more enlightened and advanced than ours, when it comes to adults having sexual encounters with teen-agers?
What do you suppose should happen to Mr. Sandler? "

naparn wrote on Jul 29, 2008 7:10 PM:

" Did anybody stop to think that with this deal maybe the victims don't have to testify and suffer again during a trial?

The sentence seems light but it might be a blessing to the victims. "

St. Helena Native wrote on Jul 30, 2008 10:52 AM:

" I have lived in St. Helena my whole life, and have watched our youth morf from hard working, motivated teenagers to ambition-less kids who don't know the meaning of "growing up." There have numerous times that I've seen some of your children - yes, I'm speaking of many of you who claim that you know everything about what your kids are doing - smoking behind bushes in Crane Park, showing up at collge parties stoned and high of who knows what (I've kicked out more than a few), drinking at Ana's, and getting older friends to buy them alcohol in Safeway. 'm not, in anyway, trying to justify what this coach did. It is absolutely horrifying that he would allow himself to get into a situation like this. However, what's even more horrific is that those girls AGREED to do it!! Now, I know that many of you are saying that girls 18 and under cannot consent because they are under age, but just because they are under age doesn't mean that they cannot DECIDE to do something without their parents' consent. I hate to say it, but this is a 2-sided story people, wronged by both parties. There are, unfortunately, lonely people out there yearning for any type of human contact. I know for a fact that Herschel was one of them. Then again, 1/2 of the girls I see in the local high school these days are wearing teeny mini skirts, baring midriff and wearing enough makeup to put Mary Kay to shame. Not only that, but most of them are wanting to people to see they have sex appeal. So, I can't see how we can FULL blame on one party. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 30, 2008 11:48 AM:

" St. Helena Native, if you'll read the posts above, you should know the answer to your own question. I'll say it again. This was not just a layman more than twice their age that met the minor children at an adult party. You know, everyone looks like an adult when you are at a party for adults. Sometimes minors sneak in and I would think an adult male would have a easier time convincing the court to go easy. Even if this were a layman at a supermarket, or anywhere else and flirting went further than it should, 9 months may be appropriate or even a little too much of a penalty. In this case, however, we are talking about a man who pursued a career of working with minor children. He was trained and educated not to even appear to be doing anything inappropriate with minor children. Not to mention all of the publicity that adults in positions of trust and authority have had over the last twenty years or so, for committing the same kind of crime. Do girls dress inappropriately, act flirtatious, initiate sexual arousal, and so on? Yes! For this reason alone, any man would have to be out of his mind to pursue a career working with them. But that was his choice, and he knew it. "

chunk wrote on Jul 30, 2008 1:05 PM:

" Hey Mafi. Was this teacher you're talking about from Sonoma? "

rage against wrote on Jul 30, 2008 1:11 PM:

" St. Helena Native,
I don't think this is a one-sided story, it is obvious to everyone (especially anyone who knew hershel) that these girls had to be pretty messed up, regularly making wrong decisions to do this kind of thing.
I went to high school with these girls, and it was plainly obvious that they were not perfect examples of well-behaved, logical teen-agers, but who is?
The point is, of course the girls were wrong in their decisions, but the person who was supposed to make the right decision didn't. The world would crumble pretty fast if we relied on teenagers as our only moral compass, becuase they are young, hasty and inexperienced people. We trust adults who, after years of experience, are taught how to act, specifically in this case, towards younger people in an appropriate way.
Mr. Sandler betrade our trust by consenting to have sexual relations with teenagers who he had direct authority over. This wasn't the only problem in this situation, but it is staggeringly the biggest problem, and the one in which judicial action is required.
Unfortunately, Mr. Sandler was a very charismatic man, and some in the community who he was acquainted with are in denial about how serious this betrayal of trust is.
Here is some real food for thought. Would this have gone the same way if the defendant had been a Mexican Janitor, and not a white faculty member? "

newmom wrote on Jul 30, 2008 2:30 PM:

" Rage: Shame on you for playing the race card. That is outrageous! The decision by the Judge, probation and the DA was based on the facts of the case and that is all. "

sammy wrote on Jul 30, 2008 4:30 PM:

" Newmom,..... you are clearly not objective because of your relationship with the perps family.

What is outrageous is that the defendant who is supposidly a man of God,....a teacher etc, that is held to a higher standard of accountability made choices as if he were a young teen boy. It is truly stories like his that make us as parents suspicious of people we are supposed to trust.

Whether the victims were immoral or not isn't the issue. The issue is your friend and his urges , "

naparn wrote on Jul 30, 2008 4:52 PM:

" To all of you who continue to lay any part of the blame on the victims here you are part of the problem. REGARDLESS of how these girls behaved, this man was in a position of authority and trust and he betrayed it. Period..... if these girls were acting inappropriately it was evidence of how vulnerable they really were. He is a monster and is the adult. Do you blame the rape victim also if she was doing something you deem as inappropriate. These were children, does anybody stop to consider how these girls have been affected over the last 10 years? "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 30, 2008 10:46 PM:

" I don't know the victims, but I find it hard to believe that they woke up one morning and decided to use their newly-found feminine wiles to fiendishly seduce a man over double their ages. Girls this age want to be accepted. They wear what is in style, often choosing clothing that makes them look more mature. It common for kids to do this sort of thing and it doesn't mean they are "hoes". "

napamama wrote on Jul 31, 2008 9:12 AM:

" We have a real issue with accountability in our society today. Blame gets tossed around to just about everyone but the person who did the crime. Even the victims are not exempt from being blamed! At best there is justification. "It's not that bad. There are people who have committed worse crimes."

We need to stop protecting and supporting people like Herschel. It's wrong, it's damaging to the victims and it cannot be justified. "

Paisano wrote on Jul 31, 2008 11:06 AM:

" Rage Against, I couldn't agree with you more. A Mexican janitor would most definitely not receive a slap on the wrist (9 months in jail) for committing lewd acts upon a child. "

FunnyYou wrote on Jul 31, 2008 11:26 AM:

" I was a member of a jury for a molestation case that occurred in Napa about five years ago. The perp was a Hispanic man who indecently touched a girl at a park in Calistoga during the Mexican Independence Day celebration. The perp touched the girl over her clothes and received a 5 year jail sentence (YES, A 5 YEAR JAIL SENTENCE). A nine month sentence for molesting two young girls is a joke. The DA's office should be ashamed of themselves. "

GetReal! wrote on Jul 31, 2008 2:12 PM:

" A 5 year sentence for touching a girl? Just wondering what her age and his age were? If she were prepubescent then yes, that would bring this particular Hispanic to level even lower than the coach, even if he were molesting her over her clothes. The Mexican janitor situation, on the other hand, blew my mind. As far as I ever heard, all he did was kiss a student. I don't remember if she was a high schooler or Middle school. But his penalty, which I can't remember, seemed way overboard. "

MarkMiwords wrote on Jul 31, 2008 4:25 PM:

" Isn't the D.A. an elected position??? Lets all vow to remember this case come next election time! "

Funnyyou wrote on Aug 1, 2008 8:22 AM:

" GetReal, the girl was about 11 years old and the perp was in his twenties. The girl was in line to purchase some food when the perp touched her behind. The girl then told her mother who notified the authorities. As for the janitor, that incindent occurred at one of Napa's middle schools. "

amazed wrote on Aug 1, 2008 12:48 PM:

" All I can say is, this guy is going to re-offend. He shows no remorse (other than for being caught) and no sense of responsibility. "

newmom wrote on Aug 1, 2008 3:04 PM:

" These charges are 11 years old and he has not re-offenede so there goes that theory. Also he has shown great remorse, but the paper chose their quotes specifically for their story. "

GetReal! wrote on Aug 1, 2008 3:46 PM:

" Thank you, FunnyYou. Yes, I can certainly see inconsistency in our system when a twenty something year old Hispanic gets 5 years for touching an 11 year old girl on her rump, with her pants on, while a 33 year old coach and pastor gets 9 months for having sexual intercourse and oral copulation with a 15 and a 16 year old.
I thought perhaps the Mexican was rubbing the front of her pants and not the rear. That sentence seems a little harsh for being "touched" in the behind! Clearly the "coach" should have been held to a higher standard and yet it appears that the standard in his case was lowered. "

Funnyyou wrote on Aug 4, 2008 9:57 AM:

" Five years for touching a girls behind over her clothes does seem a bit extreme but I am glad that this person recieved this sentence. He shouldn't have touched the girl in the first place. I seriously do not understand how or why Mr. Sandler received such a small sentence in this case. Does not make sense at all. I have never voted for a DA but I will begin to do so from now on. "

707twistedT wrote on Aug 6, 2008 2:38 PM:

" "OMG" our school systems are bad enough with all the budget cuts, We also have to worry about "perps" learking about our schools! "

MarkMiwords wrote on Dec 29, 2008 9:58 AM:

" So 5 months have passed since the original publishing of this article, and I have to say I'm STILL mad. Herschel will be out of jail in another 4 months. It's just too short of a sentence. I'm still mad at Herschel, and I'm still mad at our "justice" system. "

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