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California trainer arrested on multiple counts of sexually abusing minor

A California youth coach and trainer was arrested Thursday in Bakersfield, California, on multiple counts of sexual assault of a minor.

According to the Santa Ana, California, police department, 37-year-old Christopher Flores was investigated after two of his alleged victims say that he assaulted them.

Flores is currently being held at the Orange County Jail with bail set at $500,000. His next court appearance is Aug. 15.

Flores was employed as a coach and trainer of the STARS Preparatory Academy, a training facility in nearby Orange, which says it provides "elite sports performance training for middle-school athletes." Flores is also known for working with college and professional football players.

Picture of people doing cardio training on treadmill in gym
Picture of people doing cardio training on treadmill in gym

Authorities say they were made aware of the assault claims Aug. 5 when a 14-year-old girl, who was enrolled in the STARS Preparatory Academy, said Flores sexually assaulted her throughout 2021.

The girl made a video recording of a conversation she had with Flores when Flores asked her on a date and questioned whether she “deleted everything." According to the news release from Santa Ana Police Department, authorities believe Flores asked the victim to delete text messages between them.

Police were then made aware of a second victim, a 15-year-old girl, who made assault allegations against Flores in August. That case is being probed by the Riverside County, California, Sheriff’s Department.

Santa Ana police also say there may be additional victims that were assaulted by Flores.

Former NFL player Jason David, who started at cornerback in the Indianapolis Colts' Super Bowl 41 victory over the Chicago Bears, co-founded Rising STARS with Flores in 2017, according to ESPN.

David addressed the situation on social media, saying he stands with the victims and will assist in any investigation.

"Never in a million years would I ever imagine releasing a public statement to address sexual misconduct allegations that involves Mr. Flores and our innocent little girls," David said. "I'm sick to my stomach. I'm disgusted. I'm outraged."

"To the young ladies who are speaking up and who are thinking about speaking up, I commend you guys. You guys are brave. I stand with you guys and I just pray that justice is served."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trainer from California arrested on counts of sexually abusing minor