A special needs gymnastics coach has been charged with sexually abusing two developmentally disabled girls, authorities said.
An Illinois gymnastics coach for special needs students has been charged with molesting two developmentally disabled girls while staying in Georgia for a competition, authorities said.
Patricia Hermann, 48, is being held without bail in the Cook County Jail, pending extradition to Cobb County, Georgia, on three counts of sexual battery of a minor and one charge of aggravated sexual battery of a minor, police told INSIDE EDITION.
The coach is the founder and CEO of Elite Stars in the suburban Illinois town of Schaumburg. Her company provides athletic programs including gymnastics and cheerleading for youngsters with special needs, according to the firm’s website.
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Hermann describes herself as having “a unique touch for individuals with special needs.” Her profile says she has been a coach for more than 25 years and has led five Special Olympics winners.
The alleged assaults occurred between April 30 and May 3 during a team gymnastics tournament in Kennesaw, Georgia, authorities said.
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The girls told their folks about the alleged molestations and the adults contacted authorities, police said.
“Even though they are challenged, they were able to their parents what happened" Pierce told INSIDE EDITION.
Her attorney said she is not guilty, WGN-TV reported.
She was arrested Saturday and is expected to face an extradition hearing this week, authorities said.
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