Former Louisburg High coach arrested on sex charges

Louisburg police arrested a former high school football coach Thursday afternoon following an investigation into allegations that he had a sexual relationship with a student.

James Collier, 40, of 401 W. Noble St., faces felony charges of sexual offense on a student and taking indecent liberties with a student. He was released from jail after posting a $5,000 bond.

Louisburg Police Chief Rick Lassiter said that an investigation revealed that Collier had a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl who attended Louisburg High School. Lassiter did not say how long the relationship lasted.

Last month, Collier resigned from his positions at the school as athletic director and head football coach.

Boyd Sturges, attorney for Franklin County Schools, requested on Jan. 4 that the police department initiate the investigation. Lassiter said he asked the State Bureau of Investigation to assist in the case.

Greg Thomas, a spokesman for the Wake County Public School System, said Collier applied for a position in the district and that he was recommended to be hired at Wakelon Elementary School.

That recommendation, however, was withdrawn before his arrest, Thomas said.