A Grosse Pointe high school hockey coach, Benjamin Warda, has been charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct following an alleged assault that took place on his boat. The incident reportedly occurred on June 13 while the vessel was docked at a marina in St. Clair Shores, Michigan.
Allegations and Arraignment
Warda, a 38‑year‑old resident of Grosse Pointe Farms, appeared before a judge in the 40th District Court in St. Clair Shores and was formally charged. Prosecutors indicated that the charge represents the maximum penalty available under Michigan law given the evidence presented.
According to the charging documents, the alleged assault involved a non‑consensual act against a person aboard the boat. The case has drawn significant local attention due to Warda’s role as the head coach of the Grosse Pointe South High School Varsity Boys’ ice hockey team, the Blue Devils.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
During the arraignment, a judge set Warda’s bond at $50,000 and scheduled a preliminary hearing for July 14. Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido emphasized that the charge reflects the seriousness of the alleged conduct, stating that the maximum penalty is appropriate given the circumstances.
The Grosse Pointe Public School System responded swiftly, removing Warda from all athletic program responsibilities. District officials said the decision was made to protect students and maintain the integrity of the school’s sports environment while the legal process unfolds.
Beyond the immediate legal ramifications, the case has sparked conversation about safety protocols within school‑affiliated extracurricular activities. Representatives from the Michigan High School Athletic Association noted that they are monitoring the situation closely and will coordinate with local authorities as needed.