Former Lithia Springs HS coach accused of sexual misconduct denied bond
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. - A teacher, football and track and field coach at Lithia Springs High School was recently arrested for possible sexual misconduct, according to Douglas County Sheriff's Office.
According to a press release, the sheriff's office became aware of the issue on May 27. The victim, who is not being named, stated that while they were a student at the high school, they were sexually assaulted by Kerry Hood, a teacher at the school and a track and field coach.
The victim told the sheriff's office that the incidents took place on school grounds and other locations, including other states.
Hood is listed on Lithia Springs Lions website as the coach for girls' track. In a social media post, Hood was also identified as the offensive coach for the school's football team.
Probable cause was established for the arrest of Hood, and he turned himself in on May 29.
Sheriff Tim recognized the quick work of his responding investigators. He said they have worked on the case since the original incident report.
One of Hood's former football players said he is still struggling to understand how his old coach could be accused of sexually assaulting a student.
"It surprises you in the moment," Voncie Evans said. "It hits you at first. It's like, ‘There’s no way this is real.'"
Parents concerned over coach's sexual misconduct accusations
Former Lithia Springs High School Coach Kerry Hood was accused of sexually assaulting a student on school grounds and in other states while working for the Douglas County School District. Parents told FOX 5 they were disturbed by the charges.
Labresha Gray, the parent of a tenth grade female student, said the accusations were deeply concerning.
"Very disturbing, that's sickening. Why are you even interested in a child?" she asked.
Gray said she now worries about the safety of her daughter while at school.
"We put our trust in these teachers. We send our kids to these schools every day. We trust that the teachers have our students’ best interest at heart," Gray said. "We can’t trust them with our daughters."
On Thursday morning, a judge denied Hood bond, calling him a "risk to society" even though his lawyer pointed out that he has no prior felonies and has extensive ties to metro Atlanta. It was also revealed in court that the alleged sexual contact took place for at least 6 months, starting Nov. 23 and ending this week.
Hood told the court that he was a teacher for 7 years and a teacher's assistant for 10 years before then. His next court date is unknown at this time.
Hood's attorney told FOX 5 Atlanta after court that he is not running away from the accusations and he is ready to fight.
Hood has been fired by the Douglas County school system.
WATCH FULL COURT APPEARANCE BELOW
Douglas, DeKalb schools issue statements on Coach Kerry Hood allegations
FOX 5 Atlanta reached out to Douglas County schools for comment on the accusation and received the following statement:
"The Douglas County School System is deeply disturbed by recent allegations of sexual misconduct involving a former Douglas County School System employee. Our hearts go out to the victim and their family during this time.
"The accused individual is not an employee of our school system. The former coach has been arrested and is facing charges filed by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation and will continue to cooperate with authorities and provide any assistance necessary to facilitate the investigation.
"The alleged incident is a violation of our professional standards and does not represent the expectations we have for anyone entrusted with the care of our students. We maintain strict policies and procedures to prevent and address any form of misconduct or abuse.
"Safety is at the forefront of our priorities in the Douglas County School System. We remain fully committed to ensuring the well-being of all our students. As this investigation progresses, we will continue to respect the privacy of those involved.
"Thank you for your support and cooperation as we work together to ensure a safe and nurturing learning environment for all our students."
Hood was offered a position as a football coach for DeKalb County schools. A spokesperson for the district released the following statement after news of Hood's arrest:
"The DeKalb County School District (DCSD) takes allegations of inappropriate or unlawful behavior very seriously and prioritizes students' safety and well-being above all else.
"DCSD is aware of the matter involving Mr. Kerry Hood. Although not an active employee, Mr. Hood was previously offered the head football coach position at Arabia Mountain High School. DCSD does not intend to proceed with the employment of Mr. Hood."