Trinidad College Wrestling Coach Faces Serious Criminal Charges in Southern Colorado Case
A former Trinidad State Junior College wrestling coach is facing multiple criminal charges after surrendering to authorities at the Pueblo County Detention Center this week. John Lewis, 31, is charged with extortion, athlete bribery, and providing alcohol to minors in a case that has rattled southern Colorado's collegiate sports community.
The investigation has raised concerns among Colorado's collegiate athletic programs and parents about the safety and integrity of student athletics in our state. Trinidad State, which serves many local and regional student-athletes, has been cooperating with authorities throughout the investigation.
"The safety and well-being of our student-athletes remains our highest priority," according to statements from college officials familiar with the case.
Law enforcement documentation reveals that Lewis was:
- Taken into custody after voluntarily surrendering to authorities
- Processed at the Pueblo County Detention Center on Tuesday
- Released after posting a $15,000 bond
- Taken into custody after voluntarily surrendering to authorities
- Processed at the Pueblo County Detention Center on Tuesday
- Released after posting a $15,000 bond
Video evidence obtained by local media shows Lewis being escorted from a gymnasium by sheriff's deputies prior to the issuance of his arrest warrant. The former coach was wearing a brown coat during the incident, which was captured by community members concerned about the investigation.
For southern Colorado's tight-knit wrestling community, the charges against a once-trusted coach represent a significant breach of faith. The case has prompted several regional collegiate athletic programs to review their coaching oversight procedures and athlete protection policies.
Parents of student-athletes across the Pikes Peak region are encouraged to maintain open communication with their children about appropriate coach-athlete relationships and report any concerning behavior to proper authorities.
The case remains under investigation by local law enforcement, with proceedings to continue through the Colorado judicial system.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
