Sarasota Police Department confirmed that former Booker High School football coach Carlos Woods is under criminal investigation, though the specifics of the case have not been disclosed.
The inquiry, which does not involve any alleged misconduct toward students, began after Woods was removed from his dual roles as athletic director and head coach on July 16, a move made without public explanation.
Woods, who guided the Tornadoes to a 12‑2 record and a state semifinal appearance in his only season as head coach, has denied any wrongdoing, posting a statement on Facebook that he is not the target of an active criminal probe.
While the investigation remains confidential, the school district has said Woods continues to be employed by Sarasota County Schools, and no further details have been released.
A contested coaching history
Prior to his Florida tenure, Woods served as a coach at Gavilan College in San Jose, California, where in 2017 he was placed on leave and subsequently resigned after allegations of housing and dining benefits violations surfaced. He later worked at Pierce College in Los Angeles, where in 2019 he faced administrative leave over alleged housing and recruiting infractions.
The fallout from Woods’ departure has rippled through the program, with at least 21 players opting to transfer to neighboring schools, a shift that could reshape the 2026 roster.
Scheduling challenges and financial stakes
Booker High has slated a demanding slate for the upcoming season, slated opponents including Valdosta (Georgia) and St. John’s College High School (Washington, D.C.). The district warned that if the team cannot field 11 eligible athletes, it may incur financial penalties and be forced to forfeit games.
New head coach Lance Hoeltke was announced to replace Woods, inheriting both the on‑field expectations and the off‑field uncertainties.
District officials have emphasized that the investigation is being handled by law enforcement and that they are cooperating fully, while also focusing on maintaining program stability.