Volunteer Basketball Coach Charged with Sexual Conduct

Community members gather to discuss student safety protocols and measures.

News Summary

Sharmon Eubanks, a 22-year-old volunteer basketball coach in Grand Rapids, faces multiple charges of Criminal Sexual Conduct involving a minor. Allegations suggest inappropriate relations occurred during transportation for school and practice. Investigations began after the victim’s mother reported concerns, leading to an inquiry by the Grand Rapids Police. The case emphasizes the need for stringent oversight and safety measures for student interactions with volunteers in educational settings.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Sharmon Eubanks, a 22-year-old volunteer basketball coach at Ottawa Hills High School, has been charged with multiple counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct involving a minor. The charges include three counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the first degree and one count of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the second degree. The allegations stem from incidents that occurred while Eubanks provided transportation to a student under the age of 16 for school and basketball practice.

The school district indicated that Eubanks was a volunteer coach for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, and had successfully passed a background check conducted by Grand Rapids Public Schools. However, the allegations relate to a sexual abuse relationship that reportedly began in September 2024 and continued until the end of November 2024, even after Eubanks ceased volunteering in October 2024.

The situation unfolded when the mother of the alleged victim became aware of concerns regarding her daughter’s relationship with Eubanks, following an anonymous tip received via Facebook. Consequently, she reported her suspicions to the police on December 10, 2024.

Following the report, the Grand Rapids Police initiated an investigation, interviewing Eubanks. During these interviews, Eubanks initially denied knowing the student involved. However, a subsequent lie detector test administered by Michigan State Police revealed that he did not pass. After continued investigative efforts and additional interviews with the student, Eubanks eventually “reluctantly admitted” to the relationship.

The investigations indicated that the reported sexual abuse occurred during the rides Eubanks provided to the student. The victim provided multiple accounts outlining experiences of sexual abuse that transpired during these moments.

In response to the severity of the charges, Grand Rapids Public Schools has clarified that Eubanks was never an official employee or coach at the school. The district emphasizes their commitment to ensuring a safe environment for students and supports the ongoing investigation into these allegations.

Background Context

Criminal sexual conduct in Michigan is categorized by degrees, with first-degree charges involving sexual penetration, and second-degree charges involving sexual contact with a person under certain circumstances or with a minor. The case against Eubanks highlights serious concerns about safety and conduct related to student interactions with individuals in positions of authority, including volunteer staff. The nature of the allegations underscores the challenges schools face in monitoring the activities and relationships between students and adults, even those who may not hold formal titles or positions.

Following these events, many in the community are seeking clarity on how such situations can be prevented in the future, and what measures are in place to protect students from potential misconduct. Discussions are likely to center on the effectiveness of background checks and the need for more stringent protocols in volunteer selections within educational environments.

The charges against Eubanks mark a significant development in a case that has raised widespread concerns over the safety of young students in athletic programs. The legal proceedings will determine the future implications for Eubanks, as well as set a tone for accountability regarding the oversight of school volunteer programs.