Georgia Coach Accused of Grooming Teen Player, Continuing Contact After Mother's Intervention
Katie Elizabeth McDevitt faces felony charges for alleged inappropriate behavior and communication with a 15-year-old softball player.
A Georgia softball coach is accused of grooming a 15-year-old player on the Georgia Strike team, allegedly sending romantic messages and engaging in uncomfortable physical contact, according to an arrest warrant. Katie Elizabeth McDevitt, 28, who also taught at Loganville Christian Academy, continued to communicate with the minor even after the teen's mother attempted to intervene, investigators stated in an affidavit.
The alleged grooming occurred between February 1 and September 22. Authorities claim McDevitt created opportunities to be alone with the student athlete before and after practices at a hitting facility, deliberately avoiding surveillance cameras. The affidavit notes that McDevitt maintained private communication channels with the victim subsequent to her mother's intervention.
McDevitt was arrested by the Walton County Sheriff’s Office on felony charges for grooming a minor. She was booked into jail last Thursday and posted a $7,500 bond the following day.
Loganville Christian Academy placed McDevitt on administrative leave immediately after being notified of the investigation. The school stated that the student athlete in question was not enrolled at their academy and they were unaware of any allegations involving their students. Georgia Strike Softball also terminated McDevitt's coaching position shortly after being informed of the police allegations, issuing a statement emphasizing their commitment to player safety and well-being.