Coach charged with sexual assault had been offered head football coach job at another school

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — A star metro Atlanta high school track coach accused of sexually assaulting a student had multiple encounters with the student over a period of months, investigators said.

Kerry Hood, 47, was a teacher and track & field coach at Lithia Springs High School in Douglas County. His women’s team were state champions earlier this month.

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Channel 2′s Bryan Mims was at the high school Thursday, where deputies said they became aware of allegations of sexual misconduct against Hood on May 27.

The student said the incidents took place on school grounds and in other locations including other states. Investigators determined the abuse had been going at least since November. They are now working to determine if there were any more victims.

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Hood was arrested when he turned himself in on May 29. Lithia Springs High School officials said he was no longer employed with the school district and said they are working closely with law enforcement on the investigation.

Hood faced a judge Thursday, who denied him bond, saying he is a threat.

“He does have a significant risk of being around other children and other young people,” Judge Caldwell said. “I can’t have that based on the charges against him right now.”

Channel 2 Action News has learned that Hood had been offered the position of head football coach at Arabia Mountain High School.

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“DCSD does not intend to proceed with the employment of Mr. Hood,” the district wrote in a statement. “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.”

The victim was not identified.

The school district issued a statement saying Hood is no longer an employee, reading:

“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.”

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