A 34-year-old Central Florida high school teacher and coach was arrested for sexual battery and unlawful sex with a minor.
On July 30th, a juvenile victim disclosed an inappropriate relationship with 34-year-old David Patrick Coffey, a prior Riverview High School teacher and coach. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested him.
Coffey used social media applications to engage in inappropriate conversations with the victim.
Through investigative means, detectives learned that on numerous separate occasions, Coffey and the victim would meet and have sexual interactions.
According to law enforcement, Coffey has been charged with:
- Sexual Battery (Familial or Custodial Authority)(Authority Figure Over Student) (x2)
- Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor (x4)
- Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor (Authority Figure Over Student)
- Unlawful Use of Two Way Communications Device
“This man abused his power as not only an authority figure but a mentor to young women,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “My heart aches for this victim and I encourage her to seek any help she may need as she heals from this violation of trust.”
Coffey was hired by Hillsborough County Public Schools in 2015 as a Social Studies teacher.
He has coached athletes at different levels:
- JV Football (Assistant Coach): 2015-2017
- Girls Flag Football (Assistant Coach): 2016-2019
- Varsity Football (Assistant Coach): 2017-2018
- Girls Wrestling (Assistant Coach): 2018-2020
- Girls Flag Football (Head Coach): 2019-2024
- Girls Golf (Coach): 2020-2021
The investigation is ongoing, according to local law enforcement.