A familiar figure among Phoenix Suns enthusiasts, Patrick Battillo, known as the Suns’ devoted super fan “Mr. ORNG,” has been apprehended on alarming charges, casting a shadow over his once-celebrated presence.
Renowned for his vibrant orange attire at Suns’ games, Battillo now faces a different reality if the accusations against him are substantiated.
The Valley High School coach, also recognized as the head coach for the Peoria High School boys’ basketball team, was taken into custody on Wednesday for alleged child sex offenses, as per authorities. According to records from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office via 12News.com, Battillo faces charges of luring a minor for sexual exploitation and child prostitution.
The investigation into Battillo’s alleged actions commenced on April 9th, initiated by Peoria police following communication from school administrators at Peoria High School.
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Allegedly soliciting sexual content from students in exchange for financial incentives, Battillo was reported by students to another faculty member. However, instead of escalating the matter appropriately, 46-year-old Holly Holgate purportedly disclosed the information to Battillo, enabling him to leave the premises before authorities intervened. Subsequently, both Battillo and Holgate were taken into custody.
The Peoria Unified School District issued a statement regarding the incident, expressing concern for the well-being of potential victims and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement authorities.
Battillo’s arrest has shaken the community, as investigations reveal distressing allegations of soliciting explicit material from juvenile victims. Despite a previous clean record, the severity of the accusations has prompted swift action from authorities and the school district.
The Peoria High School community now grapples with the unsettling revelations, prioritizing the support and safety of those affected while navigating the aftermath of this troubling episode.
