Charges: Gymnastics coach sexually assaulted young gymnasts in Ham Lake

Published: Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 2:16 am

Gymnastics Coach Faces Multiple Sexual Assault Charges

An Isanti man, 27, is facing multiple charges of sexual assault stemming from his time as a gymnastics coach. Kyle Anthony Pekula is the subject of three separate court cases in Anoka County, with the initial charges filed in September 2024 and the most recent filed this week.

The charges against Pekula encompass four felonies and one gross misdemeanor, all related to alleged sexual assaults of minors. The incidents are reported to have occurred between 2015 and 2024.

The two most recent complaints detail allegations of Pekula sexually assaulting two gymnastics students on multiple occasions over several years. The alleged assaults began when the victims were 12 and 13 years old. The complaints state that Pekula met the victims while working as a coach at the children's gymnastics and dance studio, Jam Hops.

Jam Hops CEO Stacey Clayson released a statement in response to the accusations. Clayson stated that the studio has implemented additional safety training for its employees and enhanced security measures. The statement expressed the studio's devastation upon learning of the additional accusations against Pekula. The statement also highlighted the studio's long-standing mission of building character and self-esteem in its students.

Police reports were filed by the victims years after the alleged incidents. One victim provided law enforcement with sexually explicit photos and videos involving Pekula and minors, according to the complaint.

BNN's Perspective: This case highlights the critical importance of robust background checks, ongoing training, and vigilant oversight in environments where children are entrusted to the care of adults. While the allegations are deeply disturbing, it is crucial to allow the legal process to unfold and for the accused to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. The actions taken by Jam Hops to improve safety protocols are a positive step, and we hope this case serves as a reminder to all organizations working with children to prioritize their safety and well-being.

Keywords: gymnastics coach, sexual assault, child abuse, Anoka County, Jam Hops, Kyle Anthony Pekula, felonies, gross misdemeanor, minors, safety measures, court cases, victims, police reports, Isanti

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