Jones High School basketball coach accused of raping student www.privateofficer.com

 

Orlando Fla April 17 2012 A volunteer girls’ basketball coach at Jones High School was arrested today after he was accused of raping a student.
Herbert Thomas, 38, is accused of starting a sexual relationship with one of his players, a minor. He was arrested and charged with two counts of sexual battery Friday.

Thomas was the girls’ assistant basketball coach at Jones and is also affiliated with the Florida Girls Basketball League, according to theOrange County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies were informed of the allegations recently and executed a search warrant at his home. It’s unclear what, if anything, was recovered.

Thomas was a volunteer coach for about two years and was not paid, said Orange County Public Schools spokeswoman Kathy Marsh.

School officials learned of Thomas’ arrest today and informed him his role as a volunteer coach was revoked and he was “no longer welcome back at the district,” Marsh said.

Investigators fear Thomas may have other victims and urge anyone with information to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

Source: Orlando Sentinel