The Marshall County Sheriff's Office has concluded its investigation into allegations of an "inappropriate relationship" between an Asbury High School coach and student, finding no cause for pursuing criminal charges. However, the Marshall County School District said the matter is still under internal investigation for ethical reasons.
Sheriff Phil Sims said, "On December 17th, 2025, we received a report of a possible incident between a teacher/coach from Asbury High School and a student. As of today, we have closed this case as unfounded and determined there wasn't any evidence of an inappropriate physical relationship that occurred. Our findings will be turned over to the Marshall County School Board for their review."
Marshall County Superintendent Cidy Wigley said there were other concerns regarding the alleged relationship beyond possible criminal conduct.
"While we appreciate the Sheriff's Office conducting its criminal investigation, this matter involves additional considerations beyond criminal charges, including the Alabama Educator Code of Ethics and standards of ethical professional conduct," the district said in a statement. "Information related to this case has been referred to the Alabama State Department of Education, which is the proper protocol in situations such as this. The state department will consider the facts and determine any further action. We will always, in every situation, protect our students."
Asbury High School principal Clay Webber also thanked the Sheriff's Office for a "thorough investigation."
"I appreciate Sheriff Phil Sims and the Marshall County Sheriff's Department for conducting a thorough investigation focused on the facts and the safety of our school community," Webber told 1819 News. "Situations like this are never easy, but we take every concern seriously, as demonstrated by the immediate notification and involvement of law enforcement. I am also thankful for our teachers, staff, and SROs who work diligently each day to keep our campus safe. Together, we remain committed to transparency, trust, and the safety of every student entrusted to our care."
According to The Sand Mountain Reporter, the parent of the student allegedly impacted by the unnamed coach's actions sent the following statement: "I have read the statement shared by the Sheriff of Marshall County, Alabama. No one from the Marshall County Sheriff's Department contacted me regarding today's report, and I learned of this through social media. As of now, I have not been allowed to see the findings from the Marshall County Sheriff's Department. Although the Marshall County Sheriff's Department has found that no crime was committed, I hold the position that inappropriate acts were committed by a school employee and third parties. I have obtained legal counsel to assist with this matter, and an independent investigation is being conducted."
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