Crime & Safety

Swim Coach Suspected in Rape of Student

Police say Todd Sousa, a swim coach who teaches at the Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center, admitted to having sex several times with a 15-year-old.

Todd Sousa, a 36 year old swim coach who teaches in Aliso Viejo, was arrested Thursday at a San Juan Capistrano high school on suspicion of child molestation and rape after, authorities say, he admitted to the crimes, Lt. John Meyer reported to Patch.

According to Meyer, on Wednesday night, a 15-year-old contacted the Orange County Sheriff's Department to report that she had sex four times during the past several months with her swim coach, whom she identified as Sousa. 

Meyer said that on Thursday, the sex-crimes unit "conducted a covert telephone call with the victim and the suspect. The suspect admitted to the allegations."

Find out what's happening in Aliso Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Sousa and his wife own Swim Venture, a company that leases pool space from campuses for swim instruction. He is not employed by any of the schools, Meyer said. Sousa gives swim lessons at the Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center, according to the website.

At about 6 p.m. today, the sex crime officers arrived at JSerra Catholic High School, where Sousa was coaching. During an interview with the officers, police say, Sousa admitted to having sex with the 15-year-old.

Find out what's happening in Aliso Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to Swim Venture's website, Sousa has been "recognized by the United States Swim School Association for his excellence in teaching and creativity in establishing innovative awards programs." He founded the company along with his wife, Jill, in 1994. It was originally named Shoreline Swim School. They teach at pools across South Orange County, including Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch and Dana Point.


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