Sean Hutchison, accused this week of sexually assaulting star swimmer Ariana Kukors, has issued a statement categorically denying that he acted inappropriately.
Hutchison released a statement that he did not “groom” Kukors for a sexual relationship and that any sexual or romantic encounters between the two occurred after she was legally able to consent. He also added that the two had a “committed” relationship in the year after the 2012 Olympics. Read the full statement below.
“At no time did I ever abuse Ariana Kukors or do anything with her that was not consensual. I absolutely deny having any sexual or romantic relationship with her before she was old enough to legally make those decisions for herself. Prior to that time, I did nothing to ‘groom’ her.
“After the 2012 Olympics we were in a committed relationship and Ariana lived at my residence in Seattle for more than a year. Her younger sister also lived with us for several months and her mother was a regular visitor to our home. I deeply regret that she would make these wild allegations all these years later.”
In other news related to the Hutchison case, a report from the Associated Press indicates that Hutchison’s home was searched and electronic devices were taken in order to gather information relating to the investigation.
Also according to the AP, Hutchison has officially left his post as CEO of the King Aquatic Club, and his photo and bio have been removed from the club’s website. King Aquatic Club head coach Michael Brooks told the AP that Hutchison “has had no direct interaction with our swimmers for a very long time.”
Read the full AP report (via the Miami Herald) here.
oh no…swimming too
This issue has already surfaced for USA Swimming back in 2010 I think. This seems like it was part of that sting as well. But this is so prevalent in all sports it seems. Hopefully with these survivors coming out and telling their stories, will help. So sad for all these kids.
http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/abc-news-investigation-usa-swimming-coaches-raped-molested/story?id=10322469
So, looks like he is now admitting to what he denied in the investigation years ago. Which statement is the lie?
That always seems be be the first line of defense in the sports world…deny, deny, deny, and then plead and hope to get a deal. Unless you are Michael Phelps. Then you have reporters run up to you and ask if you smoked pot —expecting a denial or excuse— and he replied with, “Ya, I did it. I made a mistake and am sorry for the people I have let down.”