A shocking case out of Florida has rattled a local high school community. Authorities say 42-year-old Lagarius Spikes, an assistant football coach and Graduation Enhancement Technician at Bayshore High School, was arrested after allegedly trying to solicit sex from a 16-year-old student.
According to ABC 7 and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the teen’s parent reported that Spikes made sexually explicit comments and advances toward their child inside his office. Investigators say the coach also sent the student explicit text messages and even engaged in an audio-recorded conversation that supported the claims.
Spikes was taken into custody early Tuesday morning at his home. He’s now charged with soliciting sexual battery by an authority figure.
The school district wasted no time placing him on administrative leave. In a statement, officials emphasized that student safety is their highest priority and said they are fully cooperating with law enforcement.
Making the allegations more troubling, Spikes’ role as a Graduation Enhancement Technician was meant to support struggling students, especially those facing homelessness, absenteeism, and lack of parental support. His job was to build trust, which he has irreversibly shattered.
While authorities say there were no previous complaints against Spikes, the investigation remains active. Counselors are on hand for students and staff dealing with the fallout from these disturbing allegations.
Parents are being urged to speak up if their child has had similar encounters with Spikes.
