Franklin man accused of having inappropriate contact with 15-year-old student
Zachary Drabek
FRANKLIN -- A Franklin High School bowling coach is accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old student. Prosecutors charged Zachary Drabek of Franklin with second degree sexual assault of a child and stalking.
At the time of the incident, the 19-year-old man was a volunteer coach for the district. He has been removed from that post after being charged for alleged inappropriate behavior with a minor.
Prosecutors say Drabek assaulted the boy on New Year's Eve at the teenager's Franklin home.
According to a criminal complaint, Drabek and the teen knew each other before with Drabek buying the boy video games, candy gift cards and a knife.
Franklin High School
After the alleged assault, prosecutors say the boy blocked Drabek on social media, but police say the Franklin man kept trying to get in touch with the teen.
Drabek worked as a volunteer bowling coach for Franklin High School.
"The Oak Creek-Franklin School District shared the following statement with FOX6 News:
The Franklin Police Department has informed District Administration that a Franklin high school student has made a report of inappropriate contact involving an individual who, at the time of the incident, was a volunteer coach for the District. Charges were filed as a result of the report.
Upon hearing of the charges, administrators removed the individual from the District’s database of approved community partners (volunteers and visitors). The Franklin Police Department immediately communicated to the individual that he was to have no contact with any school staff, students or events. Upon charging the individual, the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office has issued a No-Contact Order to the individual.
The individual was also employed for two summers and passed a background check. There were no reports of misconduct during his time with the District. The incident occurred outside of the school day and off school grounds. However, under no circumstances does the District tolerate any inappropriate conduct affecting our students. If information is ever presented to District personnel that any such inappropriate conduct may be taking place, it is immediately investigated and handled as appropriate, including notification of law enforcement.
We wish to make it clear that the well-being and safety of all of our students is our top priority. The District conducts background checks on all individuals before clearing them for access to our schools and we require all visitors to check-in at the main office of all our buildings.
The District recently implemented a new tipline tool for students and families to report any concerns of bullying, violence, and self-harm. STOPit, is a mobile and online resource to alert district administration and the FPD. Students in 3rd- through 12-grade were provided information about the tipline, including how and when to use it.
The District is limited in what we can and will say regarding these serious charges. Questions and/or information regarding this case should be directed to the Franklin Police Department. We are asking for respect for the privacy of all parties involved."
The school sent the following letter to families:
"Dear Families,
The Franklin Police Department has informed District Administration that a Franklin high school student has made a report of inappropriate contact involving an individual who, at the time of the incident, was a volunteer coach for the District. Charges were filed as a result of the report.
Upon hearing of the charges, administrators removed the individual from the District’s database of approved community partners (volunteers and visitors). The Franklin Police Department immediately communicated to the individual that he was to have no contact with any school staff, students or events. Upon charging the individual, the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office has issued a No-Contact Order to the individual.
We wish to make it clear that the well-being and safety of all of our students is our top priority. The District conducts background checks on all individuals before clearing them for access to our schools and we require all visitors to check-in at the main office of all our buildings.
An investigation of the individual’s file uncovered that he was also recently employed as a summer custodian. He passed a background check and there were no reports of misconduct during his time with the District. Staff who interacted with him state that there was no indication that he might pose a threat to our student’s safety and wellbeing.
The incident occurred outside of the school day and off school grounds. However, under no circumstances does the District tolerate any inappropriate conduct affecting our students. If information is ever presented to District personnel that any such inappropriate conduct may be taking place, it is immediately investigated and handled as appropriate, including notification of law enforcement.
We understand this is troubling information for you and your child(ren). Students are encouraged to talk with their school counselor if this news is upsetting to them, or if they have their own experience that is causing them distress.
Please talk with your students about the serious effects of sexual misconduct and encourage them to respect the privacy of the parties involved.
Sincerely,
Dr. Judy Mueller"
Franklin High School
Officials say they are not aware of any additional victims at this time. However, they are encouraging any possible victims to contact the Franklin Police Department directly at 414-425-2522.
Prosecutors charged Drabek with second degree sexual assault of a child and stalking. He made his initial appearance in court on Friday, Feb. 22. Cash bond was sent at $5,000. Drabek is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing on Feb. 28.