On May 20, 2026, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to a possible sexual assault involving an adult in a position of trust and a minor.
After a thorough investigation by detectives with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division Special Victims Unit, detectives determined 37-year-old Michael Vassar, a former athletic coach at Palmer Ridge High School in Lewis-Palmer School District 38, engaged in inappropriate conduct involving one or more athletes he coached.
Deputies assigned to the Fugitive Impact Team arrested Vassar on September 24, 2026, on the associated arrest warrant.
Vassar was booked into the El Paso County Jail on the following charges:
- Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust
He is currently being held, and after his advisement with a judge, his bond amount will be determined by state statute.
During the investigation, detectives learned Vassar has been associated with Crunch Fitness (1801 South Academy Blvd.) and Unbreakable Ministries Gym (124 Delaware Drive), private sporting and athletic clubs in the Pikes Peak area and has offered personal training services online.
Detectives believe there may be additional victims.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation or who believes they may have been victimized is urged to contact the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at (719) 520-7777.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. No further information is available at this time.