A Marion County boxing coach is facing multiple felony charges after a teenage girl came forward with allegations that he sexually abused her for months, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Juan Carlos Quintero-Barrios, 64, was taken into custody this week and charged with Lewd or Lascivious Molestation along with eight counts of Lewd or Lascivious Battery involving a victim between 12 and 16 years old. He is currently held at the Marion County Jail without bond.
Investigation Uncovers a Pattern of Abuse
The case began on June 10, when deputies were called to investigate reports of sexual battery that reportedly started back in September of last year. The teenage victim told investigators that Quintero-Barrios, who had coached her in boxing, assaulted her repeatedly at several locations throughout the county. Those locations reportedly included Doghouse Boxing Gym, 4 Kings Boxing Gym, his own residence, a hotel room, and his vehicle.
According to detectives, the girl gave investigators a detailed account of what happened to her and said Quintero-Barrios warned her that something bad would happen if she ever told anyone.
Detective Zachary Elliott, who led the Major Crimes investigation, reached out to Quintero-Barrios and arranged an interview on July 6. During that conversation, the coach reportedly referred to the teen as a troublemaker before investigators presented him with hotel receipts tied to the case.
Suspect Admits to Meeting Someone at Hotel
Confronted with the evidence, Quintero-Barrios grew agitated and eventually admitted he had brought a woman to the hotel room while cheating on his wife, though he would not identify her, deputies said. He was arrested shortly after.
Investigators say that, given his role coaching children in the sport, there is concern that additional victims may exist who have not yet come forward. The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact Detective Elliott directly at 352-671-3847.
The arrest has drawn a strong reaction from local residents online, with many praising the teenager for speaking up and expressing concern about vetting adults who work closely with children in youth sports programs.
As of now, Quintero-Barrios remains in custody while the investigation continues. No additional charges have been announced, but authorities say the case remains open as they look into whether other victims may be involved.
