Butler County volleyball coach and elementary teacher accused of sexual misconduct involving teenager
An elementary school teacher and youth volleyball coach in Butler County has been arrested and is accused of sexual misconduct involving a teenager.
Pennsylvania State Police said Friday that Jared Lampus, 50, of Sarver, was arrested following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct.
Lampus, who State Police say is a teacher at Buffalo Elementary School in the Freeport Area School District and a youth coach with the Pittsburgh Elite Volleyball Association, is facing numerous charges, including rape, sexual assault, corruption of minors, and other offenses.
State Police say Lampus had sexual contact with a 16-year-old child. Troopers say the alleged misconduct took place in Butler, Armstrong, and Allegheny counties.
Details on the investigation and charges haven't been released, but State Police say Lampus is being held in the Butler County Jail.
In a statement, the Freeport Area School District said it was notified of the investigation, and at this time, they don't have complete information about the circumstances of the matter.
The district says Lampus has been placed on leave pending further information or the outcome of the State Police investigation.
"The safety of our students is the highest priority of the Freeport Area School District," the district said.
In a statement, the Pittsburgh Elite Volleyball Association said they were notified of the criminal investigation that was unrelated to Lampus' involvement with the organization.
The association said Lampus has resigned from his position with the organization, effective July 30.
Lampus has not been present at the organization's facility since that date and will not be returning to the association, the organization said.
State Police are asking anyone with information about similar conduct from Lampus to contact the Kittanning barracks at 724-543-2011.
Community shocked to learn of Lampus' arrest
Butler County residents say they're shocked after learning of Lampus' arrest.
"A gentleman, 50 years old, and I think the girl was 16, it's disgusting. I don't know any other word to describe it," said Butler County resident Lou Falsetti.
Others in Sarver feel the same just hearing the news for the first time.
"Unbelievable… just shocking. I never thought we'd see something like that here in our local school," said Jim Mayurik.
"I'm just shocked, amazed it happened in our little community. Very disturbing," said Polly Mayurik. "Parents need to be watchful over their children and grandparents. Kids have to talk to their parents, and parents have to really know what's going on."