Volunteer Wrestling Coach Arrested in Tumwater Amidst Allegations of Misconduct
A first-year volunteer wrestling coach at Black Hills High School in Tumwater, Washington, has been arrested and charged with two misdemeanors related to alleged interactions with a 15-year-old athlete. Howard Frank Lee, Jr., 57, faces charges of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes and fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation, according to court records.
Details of the Allegations
The Tumwater Police Department initiated an investigation following concerns raised by the head girls wrestling coach, who approached the school district’s Human Resources Director on February 19. Two female athletes reportedly shared concerns about “weird” interactions with the volunteer coach during practice sessions.
The student alleges that Lee, referred to as “Coach Skip,” grabbed her elbows and made a threatening comment about biting her shoulder during a practice session on February 17, ultimately biting her on the shoulder blade. She too reported inappropriate comments made at a wrestling tournament on February 14, including sexually suggestive remarks and a statement about his potential interest in her if she were older.
According to police reports, another student athlete stated that Lee primarily wrestled with the one female student, a practice not followed with other female athletes by male coaches.
Police Investigation and Arrest
The Tumwater School District conducted an initial investigation and determined the actions were potentially criminal, prompting a referral to the Tumwater Police Department. The SRO conducted interviews with student athletes, leading to Lee’s arrest on March 5 and subsequent charges filed on March 6.
A no-contact order has been filed, prohibiting Lee from knowingly being within 500 feet of the student’s home or Black Hills High School. Bail was set at $15,000, which Lee paid on March 6.
School District Response
The Tumwater School District released a statement emphasizing the safety and wellbeing of students as their highest priority. The district stated they immediately removed Lee from all program activities and initiated an internal review upon learning of the concerns. Lee volunteered with the high school’s wrestling program and also served as an assistant football coach. He was not a school-day employee.
The district’s statement affirmed their commitment to maintaining safeguards and fostering a culture where students experience safe reporting concerns.
Current Status and Next Steps
Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office spokesperson Tara Tsehlana stated that a probable cause statement was not filed in this misdemeanor case, as it wasn’t challenged in court. Lee’s next hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. On April 7.
FAQ
What charges is Howard Frank Lee, Jr. Facing? He is charged with communicating with a minor for immoral purposes and fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation.
What did the school district do when concerns were raised? The district immediately removed Lee from all program activities and initiated an internal review, then referred the matter to the police.
Is there a no-contact order in place? Yes, a no-contact order prohibits Lee from being within 500 feet of the student’s home or Black Hills High School.
Where can I find more information about this case? You can find updates on the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office website or through local news sources like The Olympian, KOMO News, and KIRO 7 News Seattle.
What should I do if I have concerns about student safety? Report your concerns immediately to school officials and, if necessary, to the police.
