Mariner High hoops coach arrested on child sex allegations

CAPE CORAL, Fla. Mariner High School Head Basketball Coach James Harris was placed on administrative leave Thursday after being arrested for allegedly engaging in sexual activity with a minor.

Harris, 40, also serves as a social studies teacher at the school.

Harris began exchanging texts with the victim over the summer, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office said. The texts became more sexual in nature, then the pair started having sex in November, investigators said.

Authorities identified the child as a student. It was not immediately known if the student attends Mariner.

School district officials said they are also investigating the matter.

Harris’ first court appearance is scheduled for Friday morning. He faces two charges of sexual assault.

Mariner is scheduled to play in the district championship game against Lely High on Friday.