LAKEWOOD, Ohio — Police are investigating following allegations of "inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature" against a part-time athletics coach at St. Edward High School.
Principal KC McKenna confirmed the allegation came from a student's family, and says administrators immediately contacted the Lakewood Police Department. The coach has been indefinitely suspended and is not allowed to have any contact with anyone associated with the school
A city of Cleveland spokesperson also confirmed that the man is a Cleveland firefighter.
The exact nature of the allegations is not known at this time, and St. Edward says the man has not yet been criminally charged. A statement from McKenna read, in part:
"These are disturbing allegations, and our concern is solely for the health and safety of our students. We have informed our community and instructed anyone with information to contact the Lakewood Police Department. We also have asked them to keep our community in their prayers during this difficult time, especially those who were affected by this behavior.
"St. Edward High School conducts background checks on all employees, including part-time coaches, and requires that they participate in VIRTUS training to protect children and students against sexual abuse. We encourage anyone who is aware of inappropriate behavior to report their concerns to a trusted adult.
"We are grateful to those who came forward to report this behavior, and will do whatever we can to support them and to protect their privacy."
The case remains under investigation. 3News is working to confirm the man's identity.
This is the second allegation of sexual misconduct made against a St. Edward employee this year: Back in October, 32-year-old teacher Patrick DeChant was arrested and charged with corruption of a minor after he allegedly tried to meet a 15-year-old boy. DeChant is currently out on bond and, like the coach, has been suspended by the school.
