Lawrence swim coach arrested for sex misconduct with a minor

A Lawrence swim coach is facing a preliminary felony charge of sexual misconduct with a minor.

Police say he had an inappropriate relationship with one of the teens he coaches.

According to police, 36-year-old Christopher Wheat kissed and fondled a 14-year-old Lawrence North High School student and swim team member.

Now, Wheat is facing criminal charges and a school investigation.

Wheat coaches the Lawrence Swim Team, a non-profit organization that competes in swim matches. Swimmers are ages three to college age.

Wheat is also the assistant swim coach at Lawrence North High School.

Lawrence Township schools administrators want to reassure parents their kids are safe.

"To our knowledge there have not been any prior complaints with the swim club or the Lawrence Swim Team has been in existence for about 33 years and to our knowledge this is the first time we've had a situation of this nature," said Sharon Smith, the schools spokesperson.

Wheat is suspended without pay from his job as an assistant swim coach at Lawrence North.

24-Hour News 8’s Gene Rodriguez spoke to Wheat's wife Tuesday afternoon. She said she has been advised not to comment on the situation.

And, another coach with the Lawrence Swim Team also refused to comment.

At 6:00 p.m., parents of children on the Lawrence Swim Team will meet at Lawrence North High School pool area for a meeting with administrators. Administrators say they will answer parents questions and hope to explain the situation.

Meantime, Christopher Wheat is jailed on a $30,000 bond.

The prosecutor is reviewing the case right now and in the next couple of days will determine what charges will be filed.