MCPHERSON, Kan. — A coach from Central Christian College in McPherson was jailed on sex crime charges earlier this week.
According to the McPherson County jail log, Joshua Macharia was booked on Tuesday on two counts of Aggravated Sexual Battery.
The 46-year-old Macharia, who coaches women's soccer, is on administrative leave pending a full investigation. He is also restricted from campus and prohibited from contacting students during the investigation.
Macharia's playing and coaching career has been at Christian institutions, as he played at Olivet Nazarene University in Illinois before becoming an assistant there and then head women's coach for four years at Arizona Christian University before joining Central.
Macharia posted bond Tuesday.
Central Christian College of Kansas has been made aware of allegations of inappropriate conduct involving a staff member and a student, according to a statement in an email from Doug Vanderhoof, Chief Strategic Operations Officer at the school.
"Upon learning of these allegations, we took immediate action by placing the individual on administrative leave, pending a full investigation. The individual is restricted from campus and prohibited from contact with students during the period of the investigation. In the meantime, the College is cooperating with law enforcement to ensure a thorough and fair investigation."
"As an institution rooted in Christian faith and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of our students, we are profoundly saddened and grieved by these accusations. Our primary concern is the safety and support of our students and we remain steadfast in our resolve to uphold our values and maintain a safe, respectful environment for all members of our community."
"We have received no further information from authorities regarding this ongoing investigation and are respecting the privacy of the involved parties by not disclosing additional details. Out of respect for the legal process and the integrity of the investigation, we ask for the public’s patience and understanding. We remain dedicated to seeking truth, accountability, and justice in this matter."