In a troubling turn of events, James Branch, the head boys basketball coach at Las Vegas Robertson High School, has been arrested and charged with a serious crime involving a minor. According to a police report from Las Vegas, New Mexico, Branch is accused of inappropriately touching an eighth-grade student during school hours.
The incident reportedly took place on January 24, when the student visited Branch’s classroom to take a photo and get a quote for the school yearbook. While she was there, Branch allegedly pulled her close and touched her inappropriately. The girl described feeling uncomfortable and tried to pull away, but Branch held onto her wrist and even asked her if she liked what he was doing. When she questioned his actions, he responded, “I don’t want you to leave me,” which only added to her distress.
After the incident, the student confided in another teacher, visibly shaken and upset. This prompted the school to take immediate action. On the same day, just before a basketball game against West Las Vegas, school administrators informed Branch that he was being placed on paid leave. Witnesses noted that he was upset about the situation.
Branch has been a teacher at Memorial Middle School and the head coach of the Robertson basketball team since the 2021-22 school year. Under his leadership, the team has enjoyed considerable success, boasting a record of 91 wins and 17 losses, including a state championship in 2022. This season, the team was performing well with a record of 15-2.However, this incident has overshadowed his coaching achievements. Reports indicate that other students have also felt uncomfortable around Branch, with some describing his behavior as “weird.” One student recounted an earlier incident where she felt someone grab her, only to find Branch standing behind her.
As of now, Branch is being held without bond at the San Miguel County jail, and the investigation is ongoing. The community is left in shock as they grapple with the implications of these serious allegations against a figure who has been a prominent part of their local sports scene for many years.
