News Summary

Richard Shaver, a 57-year-old former football coach at West High School in Knoxville, was arrested on multiple serious charges including sexual battery. This shocking news has raised several concerns among the local community about the safety of students. Law enforcement managed to apprehend Shaver after a brief manhunt following his resignation just a week prior to his arrest. This incident is part of a troubling pattern among the coaching staff at the school, prompting further investigations.

Breaking News: Former Knoxville High School Football Coach Arrested on Multiple Charges

Knoxville, Tennessee – In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the local community, Richard Shaver, a 57-year-old former football coach at West High School, was arrested on May 23, 2025. The arrest follows a series of serious allegations that have left many in disbelief.

The Charges Against Shaver

Shaver now faces an alarming total of six charges: four counts of sexual battery by an authority figure and two counts of attempted sexual battery by an authority figure. These *grave accusations* have raised questions and concerns regarding the safety and well-being of students under his care.

Shaver’s Detention

According to reports, the Knoxville Police Department initially suspected Shaver may have fled to popular tourist destinations such as Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. However, law enforcement was ultimately able to track him down in Sevier County at around 8:20 PM EDT on the same day of his arrest. At the time, he was driving a white Chrysler Pacifica, identified by its Tennessee tag number 315-BDVN.

Did He Have Help?

There were also suspicions that Shaver may have been on the run alongside his wife, further complicating the situation. As of now, it is unclear how long this chase lasted or whether he attempted to evade being apprehended.

The Timing of His Resignation

Interestingly, Shaver had resigned from his coaching position at West High School just a week prior, on May 16, 2025. This swift departure raised eyebrows and became a focal point of the investigation. Knox County Schools have confirmed his resignation and have stated unequivocally that he is no longer a faculty member at the school, creating a *clear divide* between his past and the current legal issues he faces.

A Broader Investigation

This case is particularly noteworthy given that it is part of a larger pattern of troubling allegations surrounding the coaching staff at West High School. Earlier in May, assistant football coach Chad Brooks was indicted on multiple counts of aggravated statutory rape. In light of these serious situations, Head Coach Lamar Brown has been placed on paid administrative leave while the investigations continue.

Clarifying Connections

Importantly, the Knoxville Police Department has confirmed that there is “no connection in any shape or form” between Richard Shaver’s investigation and that of his colleague, Chad Brooks. This statement seeks to reassure the concerned public that despite the nature of these accusations, the investigations are being handled independently.

What’s Next?

As this investigation unfolds, the community is left grappling with the implications of these events. Parents, students, and faculty are understandably anxious and eager for clarity and assurance about the safety of their school environment. The Knox County School District is currently facing increased scrutiny, as these allegations have raised questions about the protocols in place for hiring and monitoring staff.

Help Needed

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding Shaver or his case to step forward. You can contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers at 865-215-7165. This could be a crucial moment for anyone who has experienced similar situations or has information that could assist the ongoing investigations.

As the community waits for more information, the hope is that these serious allegations will be thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately, restoring trust and safety within the local school system.

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