“Don’t Tell Anyone or I’ll Go to Jail’: Indiana Softball Coach, Russell Bandy, 56 Who Slid His Hand in Victim’s Shorts, Is Charged With Crimes Against Children
According to the allegations, the first victim said the abuse began around age 10 while she was visiting Bandy's home.
NewsRohit MaharjanDecember 19, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 18, 2026
Russell W. Bandy, 56, also known as Bill Bandy, a softball coach in Spencer, Indiana, is facing multiple felony jury trials in 2026 after two minors from the same extended family came forward with allegations of sexual abuse.
The accusations, detailed in forensic interviews and probable cause affidavits shared publicly by Podcast 69South, reveal a disturbing and repeated pattern of grooming, molestation, and intimidation.
According to the allegations, the first victim said the abuse began around age 10 while she was visiting Bandy’s home.
She reported that he sat next to her on a couch, rubbed her leg, then slid his hand inside her pajama shorts and touched her bare private area.
He allegedly warned her, “Don’t tell anyone or I’ll go to jail.” She also stated that he stood up, dropped his boxer shorts, exposed his erect p*nis, and asked her if she wanted to see.
Later, when she was around 14, she said she woke up on a couch to Bandy’s hand inside her shorts, rubbing her buttocks. She pushed him away and told him she was trying to sleep.
The second alleged victim described years of sexualized contact that made her uncomfortable.
She said Bandy gave “grooming hugs,” rubbed her back inappropriately, and placed his hand high on her inner thigh while driving her home from school.
She reported that one year, while dressed for a fall dance, Bandy hugged her, grabbed her buttocks hard, and held her chest-to-chest despite her pushing away.
She said she smelled alcohol on his breath during the encounter.
Additionally, she claimed Bandy pressured her multiple times to look at Playboy magazines while she refused, and that her persisted for several minutes each time, even though his wife was reportedly asleep in the next room.
Court records indicate Bandy has been arrested three times in the last six months and released on bond each time.
In a recorded jail call, he reportedly asked, “How many times am I going to get arrested for this?” before invoking his attorney.
He is scheduled for three separate felony jury trials in Owen County Circuit Court in 2026.
Charges include Level 4 felony child molesting, invasion of privacy, sexual battery, and dissemination of matter harmful to minors.
Trial dates are set for May 19, 2026, and June 16, 2026.
The revelation has sparked outrage on social media. Commenters expressed fear and disgust at the alleged abuse, particularly because Bondy was in a position of trust as a coach.
One person wrote,
He was mine and my sister’s softball coach for years. Thats scary
Sadie BeamTammy Lynne Lukenbill, a graduate of Owen Valley Community High School, wrote,
Get him locked away. There’s guaranteed to be more victims both past and future that need to be saved from this man.
Tammy Lynne LukenbillMany commenters criticized the adults around Bandy for continuing to allow access to children despite repeated allegations and arrests.
One wrote, “At what point does ‘standing by you man’ become choosing a predator over your own family?”
Amy Fender said,
People like to talk a lot about what they’d do to pdfs, but as soon as they find out someone they know is guilty it’s always “they would never do that” and “where’s your proof”. Thats how these types keep getting away with it.
Amy FenderSome community members suggested public demonstrations of accountability.
One proposed a silent protest outside the courthouse on trial days, emphasizing support for victims without violence.
Another called for forming advocacy groups similar to Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), but focused on confronting sexual predators in the community.
As the 2026 trials approach, residents say they will be watching closely, not just for the court verdict, but for the broader implications on child safety, community responsibility, and ensuring predators are not shielded by family or social status.
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Rohit MaharjanRohit Maharjan is a skilled content writer and editor, known for his expertise in crafting engaging and informative written pieces. Beyond his professional work, Rohit is also a passionate musician, dedicating his free time to playing the guitar and creating melodious tunes.
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