Maryville, TN – Two volunteer coaches at Philadelphia Elementary School are under investigation after the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) executed a search warrant at their residence on January 9, 2025. The search was prompted by a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which alerted authorities to potential child exploitation and child pornography.
According to LCSO spokesperson Cody Bengel, investigators seized several electronic devices during the search, which are now being analyzed. While no formal charges have been filed, authorities have indicated that any findings on the devices will be turned over to the district attorney’s office for further review.
At this time, the LCSO has stated that there is no evidence to suggest that any children from Philadelphia Elementary School or the surrounding area were victimized by the suspects. The sheriff’s office further clarified that the investigation is ongoing and that they have already spoken with the parents of the children coached by the two individuals.
Loudon County Schools responded to the investigation by suspending the two volunteer coaches on the same day they were notified of the situation. In a statement, Jennifer Malone, spokesperson for Loudon County Schools, confirmed the suspension and directed all further inquiries to the sheriff’s office. She also emphasized that the district conducts thorough background checks on all employees and volunteers working with students and athletes.
“Student safety is our top priority,” Malone stated. “We take every necessary step to ensure that all individuals involved with our children are properly vetted.”
Loudon County Schools also assured the public that they would remain committed to maintaining a safe environment for all students. The district has yet to release further details about the individuals involved in the investigation.
The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information related to the investigation to contact them at 865-986-4823 or to submit tips via their mobile app.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the extent of any potential criminal activity, while ensuring that the safety and well-being of local children remain a top priority.
