LAYTON, Utah — A Layton gym coach was arrested Tuesday after a student came forward saying he had inappropriately touched and talked to them at lessons and via text messages.
31-year-old Kelly Brown was arrested on one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of unlawful sexual activity with a minor and two counts of dealing materials harmful to a minor.
The victim reported that Brown would often touch them inappropriately while stretching at gymnastics class.
The victim said that eventually, they and Brown moved to private lessons, in which he would ask to see their private areas, move or remove clothing and continue to touch them inappropriately.
According to a probable cause statement, the victim also reported that Brown sent graphic and inappropriate text messages.
When questioned, Brown stated he had a drinking problem a few years ago and he "made some mistakes." He also acknowledged the relationship he had with the underage victim, according to the probable cause statement.
In a statement released Wednesday, the owner of North Davis Gymnastics, Kimberly Daniels, expressed that they considered Brown's acts "despicable" and are proud of the victim for coming forward.
The statement reads in part: "Prior to his arrest, North Davis Gymnastics had no knowledge of any malfeasance on the part of Mr. Brown. NDG does not allow coaches to engage in inappropriate contact or be alone with students, and was unaware Mr. Brown was violating not only these policies, but the law.
We unequivocally condemn the despicable conduct of which Mr. Brown is accused, and applaud the courage of the gymnast who brought it to light.
North Davis Gymnastics is committed every day to ensuring our athletes are safe, and to developing a culture of safety and empowerment. We have and will continue to take specific and concrete steps to prevent future abuse by furthering our efforts to vigorously enforce the USA Gymnastics Safe Sport Policy and monitor all staff and student activity accordingly.
Additionally, NDG has reported the arrest to USA Gymnastics per Safe Sport guidelines, which has now suspended Mr. Brown’s membership and forbidden all contact with USA Gymnastics member clubs, members, and events."
