A Fresno coach has been arrested and indicted on child pornography charges. The investigation uncovered hundreds of pornographic images and videos on a home computer where 40-year-old John Richards lives. “There were multiple images and videos of child porn found at his residence in Clovis,” says Mike Prado, Fresno ICE investigator.
Richards' arrest stemmed from a three month investigation by Homeland Security, ICE. The investigation began in May, Richards was indicted in July and arrested August 1st. On Tuesday he went before the US District Court in Fresno. Agents knew Richards was in daily contact with minors that information sped up his arrest.
In 2008, John Richards began working as a walk-on assistant softball, wrestling and football coach at Fresno High School. He was also a substitute. During those four years, Richards allegedly sent and stored hundreds of pornographic images of minors on his home computer. “It’s unfortunate when we come across somebody who is in a position of trust as Mr. Richards was,” says Prado.
Students say the coach told them he was resigning from Fresno High School to take another coaching job. The Fresno Unified School District says he was asked to leave. The school released this statement, “"When the district became aware of the allegations against Mr. Richards June 29, we took immediate action that resulted in his resignation as a walk-on coach. He was also immediately dismissed from our district as a substitute teacher."
Richards was released under supervision after his arraignment in court Tuesday afternoon. He’s been ordered to stay under the supervision of his sister who has two minor children of her own. The judge made it clear, saying three times, Richards “cannot be alone with the minors or any other minor.” He’s banned from using the internet and cannot be found within 100 feet of any areas with children. He must also stay in Fresno and obey a curfew.
Richards is facing federal charges. Those include a mandatory five to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and potential lifetime supervision if he is released. He’s expected back in court August 15th.
TXT 24
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