The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a prior Riverview High School teacher and coach for sexual battery and unlawful sex with a minor.
On July 30, 2024, a juvenile victim disclosed an inappropriate relationship with David Patrick Coffey, 34. Coffey used social media applications to engage in inappropriate conversations with the victim.
Through investigative means, detectives learned that on numerous separate occasions, Coffey and the victim would meet and have sexual interactions.
Coffey has been charged with:
- Sexual Battery (Familial or Custodial Authority)(Authority Figure Over Student) (x2)
- Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor (x4)
- Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor (Authority Figure Over Student)
- Unlawful Use of Two Way Communications Device
"This man abused his power as not only an authority figure but a mentor to young women," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "My heart aches for this victim and I encourage her to seek any help she may need as she heals from this violation of trust."
Coffey was hired by Hillsborough County Public Schools in 2015 as a Social Studies teacher.
He has coached athletes at different levels:
- JV Football (Assistant Coach): 2015-2017
- Girl's Flag Football (Assistant Coach): 2016-2019
- Varsity Football (Assistant Coach): 2017-2018
- Girl's Wrestling (Assistant Coach): 2018-2020
- Girl's Flag Football (Head Coach): 2019-2024
- Girl's Golf (Coach): 2020-2021
The investigation is ongoing; any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.