Charlotte, NC, August 8, 2025
News Summary
Shy’mere Simms, a volunteer football coach from Charlotte, has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 13-year-old boy. The incident began with contact via Snapchat, leading to a meeting where the assault occurred. Following the disclosure to his mother and police involvement, Simms faces serious felony charges. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has placed him on administrative leave while the investigation unfolds. The community is encouraged to report any additional information regarding the case.
Charlotte – A 22-year-old volunteer football coach from Charlotte has been arrested and charged with one felony count of indecent liberties with a student. Shy’mere Simms faces serious allegations following an incident in which he allegedly sexually assaulted a 13-year-old boy on August 1, 2025.
The incident reportedly began when Simms reached out to the boy via Snapchat, claiming he was in the boy’s neighborhood. The victim met Simms at his gold SUV around 7:30 a.m., where the alleged assault took place. According to court documents, Simms initiated a handshake but then forced the boy’s hand down his pants.
In the aftermath, the victim disclosed the assault to his mother. Seeking guidance, the boy consulted ChatGPT on how to talk about the experience, providing a screenshot that corroborated his story. Following this, the boy’s mother informed law enforcement, leading to Simms’ arrest.
Simms had previously worked as a behavioral modification technician at Alexander Graham Middle School, which the victim also attends. He was terminated from that position in June 2025. Furthermore, Simms has a history of coaching at various schools, including Kennedy Middle School, James Martin Middle School, J.M. Alexander Middle School, Walter G. Byers School, Southwest Middle School, and West Charlotte High School.
In response to the charges, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) announced that Simms has been placed on administrative leave with pay and will not hold any position within the district while the investigation is ongoing. The district has indicated the seriousness of the allegations and is encouraging families to come forward with any additional information. They are coordinating with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police to address this situation fully.
Following his arrest, Simms was held on a bond of $20,000, which he has since posted to secure his release from jail. A court date has been set, with proceedings scheduled to occur in three weeks following his release.
For individuals affected by sexual assault, CMS highlighted the resources available, including the Safe Alliance Hope Line, which offers 24/7 support and assistance at 980-771-HOPE.
Background Context
Sexual misconduct involving minors, particularly in a school setting, has raised significant concern within communities. Cases such as this illustrate the need for vigilant protective measures for children in educational environments. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has emphasized their commitment to student safety and the importance of reporting any suspicious behavior.
FAQs
What were the charges against Shy’mere Simms?
Shy’mere Simms has been charged with one felony count of indecent liberties with a student.
What happened during the incident?
The alleged assault occurred when Simms contacted the victim via Snapchat and met him at his SUV, where the assault is said to have taken place.
What was Simms’ position in the school system?
Simms was a volunteer football coach and had previously worked as a behavioral modification technician at Alexander Graham Middle School.
What is Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools doing in response to the incident?
CMS has suspended Simms with pay and is cooperating with law enforcement during the investigation.
How can victims of assault find help?
Victims can reach out to the Safe Alliance Hope Line for 24/7 support and resources available at 980-771-HOPE.
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Additional Resources
- WBTV
- Wikipedia: Sexual Misconduct in Schools
- WSOC TV
- Google Search: Indecent Liberties with a Student
- WCCB Charlotte
- Google Scholar: Sexual Assault in Schools
- QC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Assault Legal Definition
Author: HERE Charlotte
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