A Florida high school football coach was accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old student and investigators believe he may have victimized more students as well.
James Edward Ford III, 43, was arrested Friday after the student reported to a West Port High School school resource officer that the pair kissed, including once in a school locker room, and had a sexual encounter last September in the coach’s vehicle. according to Ocala police.
The accused predator began texting the minor in January 2024, leading to a meeting between the duo outside school eight months later, police said.
“This type of behavior is unacceptable, especially for someone in a position of authority over children,” police said in a statement.
“We ask if anyone else has experienced similar behavior to please notify police.”
Ford was charged with a slew of crimes, including unlawful sexual activity with certain minors, offenses against students by authority figures, traveling to meet a minor to engage in lawful sexual activity, and using two-way communication devices to facilitate a crime . said.
The alleged sick person, who had been employed as an assistant coach since 2022, was also fired from the Ocala school.
“As of last Thursday (Jan. 16, 2025), he is no longer employed by the school, nor by Marion County Public Schools,” Marion County Public Schools said. said in a statement to News 6.
“He is not allowed on campus for any reason.”
Police suspect that there may be more young victims.
