HARRISON COUNTY MS April 23 2013 -- A drama teacher at Hancock High School arrested earlier this month on a charge of sexual battery is now facing an additional charge of sexual battery while in a position of trust or authority in Harrison County, sheriff's Major Ron Pullen said.Hiram Jay Coker, 42, initially was arrested April 11 in Hancock County after allegations of him having sex with a 16-year-old student. A subsequent investigation revealed Coker allegedly had sex with the girl at a Gulfport motel as well, resulting in the additional charge of sexual battery. Coker is now facing two charges of sexual battery while in a position of trust or authority.
The latest arrest warrant was issued for Coker at the Hancock County jail on Monday, where he has been held on a $100,000 bond. Harrison County has placed a hold on Coker in case he bonds out of jail in Hancock County so he can be held in Harrison County. Harrison County Justice Court Judge Brandon Ladner already has set bond for Coker on the latest charge at $100,000.
Coker has been a teacher at Hancock High for 14 years and is currently on administrative leave, Donnie Gholston, assistant superintendent of the Hancock County School District, said after his initial arrest.
Coker is a longtime performer and director of community theatre productions, and has taught students who have won state theatrical awards.The maximum penalty for sexual battery is 30 years in prison. source-sunherald.com