News Summary
Lamar Brown, head football coach at West High School, has been removed from his position following allegations of misconduct involving assistant coaches.
Knoxville—Lamar Brown, the head football coach at West High School, has been removed from his position amid an ongoing investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving two assistant coaches. Knox County Schools officials announced that Brown will be reassigned to another school, although he has not faced any criminal charges. This decision comes after Brown was placed on administrative leave several weeks ago while the investigation unfolded.
The investigation centers on assistant coaches Richard Shaver and Chad Brooks, both of whom are facing serious allegations. Shaver resigned when informed of his arrest related to these accusations, which involve a minor. He is now prohibited from being present on school property under most circumstances, except in specific cases such as dropping off a sick student. Brooks, on the other hand, has been placed on administrative leave without pay, following the initiation of an investigation on April 3.
Brown’s attorney indicated that he had no knowledge of the alleged misconduct prior to the investigation. To emphasize this point, it was reported that Brown passed a polygraph test. Community members have rallied around Brown, expressing their support and gratitude for his contributions to the school and the local youth. A former parent at West High School spoke positively about Brown’s character and how he has been a valuable part of the community.
In light of the troubling circumstances, community members have sought to engage with school leadership, including Superintendent Jon Rysewyk, to discuss the implications of the investigation and Brown’s dismissal. However, the Knox County Schools authority has stated that it typically does not allow interactions between the superintendent or other personnel not on the investigation team and staff under review.
As the investigation revealed a significant lack of oversight in the football program, Superintendent Rysewyk announced the appointment of Barron Chandler as the new head football coach, signaling a fresh start for the team. Furthermore, the district plans to roll out enhanced training for all athletic staff at West High over the next two years, aiming to bolster oversight and safety measures within the program.
In addition to the reassignment of Brown and the dismissal of the involved assistant coaches, another teacher at the school will also be reassigned due to disciplinary actions that stemmed from the ongoing investigation. The oversight measures being introduced may be extended to other schools in the district as well, reflecting a proactive approach to ensuring student safety.
The Knoxville Police Department continues to investigate the alleged crimes against students, with the potential for further developments as the probe progresses. School officials have expressed confidence in the leadership abilities of Principal Ashley Speas and Athletic Director Paul Romero, trusting them to navigate West High School through this difficult period.
Overall, the situation remains fluid as the community, school officials, and law enforcement continue to address the serious concerns raised by the investigation. Efforts to engage community support and ensure student safety are at the forefront of the ongoing response to this incident.
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Additional Resources
- WATE: Lamar Brown Out as West High Football Coach
- Knox News: West High School Names New Football Coach
- WBIR: West High School’s Head Football Coach Lamar Brown Will Not Return
- SI: West High Names New Football Coach Amid Criminal Investigation
- On3: Former West Tennessee Head Football Coach Speaks Out
- Wikipedia: West High School (Knoxville)
