Haines City, Fl. (Florida News Network)- A former Haines City High School teacher and basketball coach is in jail, facing 10 counts of custodial sexual battery on student between the ages of 12 and 18.
Police accuse 29 year old Wayne McKenzie Ricks, of having a sexual relationship with the student, dating back to at least fall, including on-campus at Haines City High. According to the police report more than 80 phone calls were made between the two in less than a one-month span from December to January, of those, more than 30 were made outside of school hours, including calls that ended well after midnight.
Ricks also provided the victim with gifts to include shoes, clothes and exercise equipment. A family member of the victim became aware of the relationship and reported it to police.
Haines City Police Chief Jim Elensky says, "This case of grooming serves as a reminder for parents to remain vigilant about who their children are around."
Chief Elensky encourages any additional victims or if anyone has any further information, to contact 863-421-3636, ext.2239."
Photo credit: Haines City Police