Auburn, WA middle school wrestling coach accused of sexting student
Auburn wrestling coach accused of sexting student
A former wrestling coach at an Auburn middle school was arrested for allegedly having sexually explicit conversations with a student.
AUBURN, Wash. - A former wrestling coach at an Auburn middle school is facing multiple charges, accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a 14-year-old student.
Daniel Ralph Lee, 64, the former head wrestling coach at Olympic Middle School, had been communicating with the student through text after meeting her at an event.
According to court documents, Lee was described as being on the "touchy side," giving the victim hugs and a kiss on the forehead.
Through text, Lee allegedly asked the teen if she would kiss him and repeatedly requested sexually-explicit photos.
The student told a teacher at the middle school about the text conversations between her and Lee on April 3. The teacher then relayed it to the principal, who called 911 to report the incident.
Detectives got a search warrant and say they found inappropriate messages and photos between the teen and Lee on the teen's phone.
When interviewed, detectives say Lee admitted to viewing and possessing the photos, stating he "liked the attention."
Lee was arrested on Tuesday, and is charged with two counts of communication with a minor for immoral purposes, first-degree possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and first-degree viewing depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Lee's bail has been set at $150,000 bail.
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In response to Lee's arrest, families at Olympic Middle School were sent the following statement from Principal Steven Lewis:
"We want to make sure the community is informed about incidents that impact our schools.
"The Auburn School District has been made aware that a former wrestling coach has been arrested for crimes against a juvenile. Student safety is our top priority and we have been fully cooperating with the Auburn Police Department during this investigation. The person was only employed as a coach and is no longer an employee.
"This is an ongoing police investigation so we are not able to release additional information at this time. If you have information that would be helpful to the Auburn Police Department’s investigation, please call the APD tip line at 253-288-7403.
"We know this is concerning and student safety is our number one concern. We have counselors and trusted adults here to support your student. If you have any questions, please contact me."
The Source: Information in this story is from charging documents from King County Superior Court, Olympic Middle School and FOX 13 Seattle reporting.
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