Henderson coach charged with choking student

Henderson coach charged with choking student

Posted: Today at 10:14 a.m. Updated: Today at 11:21 a.m.
Henderson, N.C. — Police have filed felony charges against a Henderson Middle School gym coach for choking a student.
John Pecora, 59, is accused of grabbing a 13-year-old boy by the throat and lifting him up, according to Lt. Charles Pulley.
The incident happened around May 19, but police did not file charges until they completed their investigation. The charge was filed on June 27.
Police say the incident was witnessed by a school security guard. Authorities said the boy told them it started when Pecora made fun of the student’s feet.
Pecora was released on $10,000 bond. When asked about his employment status, school spokeswoman Terri Hedrick would only say that it’s a personnel matter.
Reporter: Beau Minnick
Web Editor: Kelly Hinchcliffe
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