Former Fremont Ross HS coach charged with felony

Man allegedly involved in sexual relationship with 17-year-old student

6/4/2014
BY VANESSA McCRAY
BLADE STAFF WRITER

FREMONT -- A former Fremont Ross High School assistant football and track coach was charged with a third-degree felony following allegations he had sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old girl who attended the high school.

Johnny Alridge, 36, of Fremont was arrested and arraigned today on a sexual battery charge.

Sandusky County Sheriff’s Office Detective Capt. Sean O’Connell said a family member of the student reported concerns about Mr. Alridge. 

The girl confirmed she and Mr. Alridge had intercourse four to six times from February through early May at a motel in Fremont. Detective O’Connell said the student was not a member of any teams Mr. Alridge coached.

He was scheduled to travel to Columbus with members of the track team for an upcoming meet, but resigned his coaching positions today, Detective O’Connell said.

The defendant was arraigned in Fremont Municipal Court. Bond was set at $25,000, with an option to post 10 percent. He remains lodged at the Sandusky County jail.

The sheriff’s office continues to investigate the incident and the possibility Mr. Alridge had improper contact with other students.

Fremont Superintendent Traci McCaudy could not be reached for immediate comment.