MINGO COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Mingo County Schools issued a statement Friday following the indictment and arrest of an assistant boys’ basketball coach at Tug Valley High School.
According to the Mingo County Sheriff’s Department, Robert Tyler Hodge was arrested June 5 on a 30-count felony indictment.
The charges include one count of money laundering, two counts of fraudulent schemes, two counts of obtaining money by false pretenses, 12 counts of unauthorized access device and 13 counts of computer fraud.
Authorities have not publicly released details about the alleged crimes.
In a statement dated June 5, Mingo County Schools said it is aware of the indictment involving the assistant coach and described the allegations as “deeply concerning and alarming.”
“The Mingo County School District is aware of the recent indictment involving an assistant boys’ basketball coach at Tug Valley High School. The allegations outlined in the indictments are, to say the least, deeply concerning and alarming,” the school district said.
The district emphasized its commitment to accountability and public trust.
“The school district is committed to maintaining the trust of our students, families, employees, taxpayers, and community members. We recognize our responsibility to be good stewards of public funds and donated resources, and we expect all employees, citizen coaches, and volunteers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.”
School officials also expressed concern about the impact the case could have on students and the basketball program.
“We are deeply disappointed by the negative attention this matter has or will bring to Tug Valley and its basketball program. Most importantly, we recognize that our student athletes, coaches, and supporters who work hard every day to represent our schools in a positive manner deserve better. Their dedication, accomplishments, and commitment to their teams should not be overshadowed by the allegations involving one individual.”
The district said its primary focus remains on students and maintaining integrity within its schools and extracurricular activities.
“Our primary focus remains on supporting our students and ensuring that our schools and extracurricular programs continue to operate with integrity, accountability, and transparency. Anything less is unacceptable. We will continue to monitor the situation and take any actions that may be necessary and appropriate under applicable law and district policy. The district will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement and any other appropriate authorities.”
Mingo County Schools said no further statements will be made while the criminal case remains active.
“Because this is an active criminal matter, no further comments will be issued by the school system.”
The Mingo County Sheriff’s Department noted that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
