A prominent figure skating coach, believed to have previously trained Team USA's Winter Olympics gold medalist Amber Glenn, has been arrested on serious sexual assault charges. Benjamin Shroats was taken into custody at his residence on Wednesday after allegations surfaced regarding inappropriate relationships with two athletes under his tutelage.
Charges and Investigation Details
The 47-year-old coach, who has been affiliated with the Dallas Figure Skating Club, is currently facing charges of indecency with a child and sexual assault. According to official reports, authorities initiated an investigation on February 15 following a formal complaint that alleged Shroats had engaged in inappropriate relationships with two of his skaters. One of these relationships is reported to have begun when the athlete was still a minor, adding gravity to the charges.
Connection to Olympic Champion
Amber Glenn, who made history as the first openly queer woman figure skater to compete for Team USA and won gold in the team event at this year's Winter Olympics, was reportedly trained by Shroats at some point in her career. It is crucial to emphasize that there is absolutely no indication or evidence suggesting Glenn is involved in any way with the allegations against her former coach. The skater, who identifies as bisexual and pansexual, has not been implicated in the investigation.
Club Response and Clarifications
The Dallas Figure Skating Club issued a formal statement addressing the situation, expressing concern and outlining their position. "We know news like this is upsetting, and we want our families to know we take concerns involving our members and the adult coaches who train them very seriously. The safety and welfare of children is our top priority," the statement read.
The club further clarified its operational structure, noting that it does not hire, employ, or supervise coaches directly. All coaches providing private lessons operate as independent contractors, with lesson arrangements made exclusively between families and the individual coaches. Additionally, the club emphasized that it does not own, operate, or manage any ice rinks, distancing itself from direct oversight of coaching activities.
Legal Proceedings and Detention
Benjamin Shroats is currently being held at the Collin County Detention Center, where he awaits further legal proceedings. His bond has been set at $100,000 for each offense, reflecting the severity of the charges. The Allen Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation, and authorities have urged anyone with relevant information or concerns about potential victims to contact them directly for guidance and assistance.
The figure skating community is closely monitoring developments as this case unfolds, highlighting ongoing concerns about athlete safety and coach conduct in competitive sports environments.
