Bull City Gymnastics coach found not guilty of indecent liberties with minor and sexual battery charges

Stephen Maness, the previous owner of Bull City Gymnastics, was accused of abusing gymnasts he taught.

Attorney Melissa Owen said Maness, her client, finally feels free from what she called the cloud of suspicion hanging over his head since the charges were filed in 2021.

"I am certain he is innocent," Owen said.

The Durham District Attorney's Office released a statement Friday.

“The Durham [District Attorney's] Office thanks the young women who courageously testified in this case," a statement read from the district attorney's office. "Proving a defendant’s intent is frequently challenging – and with the strength and resolve of these young women – we put our best case forward.

The Durham District Attorney's Office thanked the jury for their time and deliberations.

"These cases are never easy, but it matters when survivors step forward," the statement reads. "We encourage anyone in our community who has been a victim of sexual assault to know the Durham DA’s Office believes and supports you.”

On Thursday, both sides completed arguments in the trial.

Maness' defense team played videos of him guiding the gymnasts and argued touching is required for the safety of the students.

Stone said Maness would put his hands on the victims' chests, butts and groins when spotting them. Stone said Maness' behavior included instances of pulling students onto his lap and sometimes tickling them.

All four of girls who made allegations against Maness were younger than 16 at the time.

Owen explained why she believes the claims were baseless.

"Touching gymnasts at this level is incredibly common," Owen said. "It is a part of high-level gymnastics. This is what it is.

"There was no sexual intent ever."

"I hope that the public realizes how damaging these types of accusations can be," Owen said.

WRAL News reached out to one of the accusers on the phone on Friday, but the person did not want to provide a comment.