SWEENY, Texas – A former Brazoria County high school coach has been accused of crimes against two students.
Eric Shelton, 28, was indicted on five charges of sexual assault of a child and attempting to commit an improper relationship with a student. The indictments said the charges involved two students.
Shelton was a teacher and basketball coach at Sweeny High School.
According to the indictment, Shelton sexually assaulted a 16-year-old student at Shelton's apartment in November.
"I was shocked and disappointed and just really outraged," said a relative of a victim, who asked to not be identified. "For someone to come in to our community, especially in the schools, we're close knit, and take advantage of that situation and prey upon the students and the young girls, it's mind-blowing."
On Dec. 14, in the midst of the allegations, Shelton tweeted, "Worst night ever. Please god get me through this."
The indictment also alleges that in September, the educator kissed a 17-year-old student and had her remove his clothes. Shelton was charged with attempting to commit an improper relationship with a student.
Shelton was arrested on Tuesday and tweeted, "I am innocent. Please God be with me."
The Sweeny ISD released the following statement.
"Mr. Shelton has been on administrative leave since these issues first came to light in mid-December of 2012. He has no coaching or instructional duties at SISD and has been advised that he is not allowed access on any SISD campuses or facilities."
Shelton posted a $100,000 bond and was released from the Brazoria County Jail on Wednesday. He is expected to be in court on March 20.