Lithia Springs High School coach accused of sexual assault denied bond

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A high school teacher and track and field coach in Douglas County has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a student, according to the county sheriff’s office.

Kerry Hood, 47, turned himself in on Wednesday, the sheriff’s office said. Two days earlier, a person told law enforcement that they were assaulted by Hood while they were a Lithia Springs High School student and on the track team.

Hood faces a charge of sexual assault by a person with supervisory or disciplinary authority, according to jail records. His arrest warrant says he had allegedly been abusing the student since December.

The reported incidents happened on school grounds and in other states, according to the sheriff’s office.

The Douglas County School District told Atlanta News First that Hood is no longer an employee.

In a statement, a DeKalb County School District spokesperson said Hood was “previously offered the head football coach position at Arabia Mountain High School,” but the district is aware of the allegations against Hood and “does not intend to proceed” with employing him.

The spokesperson said the district “takes allegations of inappropriate or unlawful behavior very seriously and prioritizes students’ safety and well-being above all else.”

Hood was denied bond in court on Thursday. Deputies are still investigating the case.

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First as we learn more.