Former Eagle HS basketball coach charged with rape and sexual battery of a child

EAGLE, Idaho (CBS 2) — A former Eagle High School basketball coach was arraigned in state district court Thursday on charges that included rape and sexual battery of a child.

Jeff Ranstrom, who faces life in prison, had a lengthy illegalsexual relationship with a 17-year-old, according to prosecutors.

He's being held on a $500,000 bond with a preliminary hearing set for Oct. 17.

Ranstrom, 32, of Star, was the head coach of the boy's varsity basketball team for the last three years until resigning on Sept. 23, according to Eric Exline, a West Ada County School District spokesperson.

Exline said Ranstrom also taught social studies at Eagle High School for six years.

He's been charged with felony counts of rape, sexual battery of a minor between the ages of 16 and 17, sexual exploitation of a minor, and burglary in connection with the case.

"Officials began their investigation last week after being contacted by a third party," said Orr. "Detectives then developed evidence Ranstrom and the girl had illegal sexual contact dozens of times between March and August."

According to the Ada County Sheriff's Office, the illegal contact occurred at homes and other places in Star, Meridian, Eagle and Boise. Prosecutors also confirmed that it happened in a classroom at Eagle High School.

They say cellphone videos were made, which led to additional charges of child pornography.

Detectives worked on a safety plan with the girl while they continued to investigate the case, which culminated in Ranstrom’s arrest on Wednesday.

Ranstrom made his first appearance in court Thursday, where it was revealed he came forward to authorities, after contacting an attorney.

He confessed to the crimes, "after they were caught," according to court records. But, it's still unclear exactly how the relationship between him and the minor was exposed.

Below contains graphic information from the court proceedings.

John Dinger, an Ada County prosecutor, said Ranstrom groomed the victim starting when she was 15, giving her money, gifts, and calling her his daughter.

"Earlier this year, he turned the relationship sexual," said Dinger. "He'd fondle her and have oral sex with her, and he'd have her perform oral sex on him. This was not a one-time thing."

Dinger said the number of sexual encounters was probably near 100, and the victim said the meetups would happen three to four times a week.

Anyone who has information about this case should contact Detective Neil Daigle by email at ndaigle@adacounty.id.gov or call (208) 577-3704.

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