Ski Coach Charged with Sexual Assault of Minor During New Mexico Trip

TAOS COUNTY, N.M. (AP) — Jared Hedges, a 48-year-old ski coach from Team Summit Colorado, was arrested on March 22 and charged with sexually assaulting a 9-year-old boy during a training trip in Taos, New Mexico. The allegations have prompted Team Summit to fire Hedges and report the incident to the U.S. Center for SafeSport.

The incident reportedly occurred on March 21, when Hedges was managing a group of young skiers at Taos Ski Valley. According to the Taos County Sheriff’s Office, Hedges faces felony charges of criminal sexual penetration of a minor and criminal sexual contact.

“We are shocked and horrified by the news that one of our coaches has been accused of sexual assault of a minor on one of our teams,” said C.B. Bechtel, executive director of Team Summit Colorado. “Team Summit takes these allegations seriously, as the well-being of all of our athletes is paramount.”

The arrest followed a report from the child, who contacted his mother after the alleged assault. Hedges was apprehended while packing his belongings shortly thereafter, police said. According to arrest documents, the boy claimed that Hedges had inappropriately touched him while they were alone in a cabin overnight, leading to serious safety concerns among parents and team officials.

“We’re deeply concerned there may be additional victims,” said Jason Jordan, attorney for the victim’s family. “These kinds of crimes are often committed by repeat offenders, and for years, Jared Hedges was responsible for travel logistics and controlling sleeping arrangements for young children.”

Team Summit Colorado, which has been recognized as a “gold” club by U.S. Ski and Snowboard since 2019, has assured the community of its commitment to athlete safety. The organization has made mental health resources available to all athletes, families, and staff involved in the trip.

The U.S. Center for SafeSport immediately suspended Hedges’ membership following the allegations, as mandated by the governing body for U.S. skiing and snowboarding. “As soon as U.S. Ski & Snowboard was notified, his membership was immediately suspended,” a spokesperson confirmed.

In light of the serious nature of the allegations, Jordan is urging law enforcement to investigate the possibility of further incidents involving Hedges over his 20-year coaching career. “We believe there are other kids out there who are either too scared or too embarrassed to come forward, and we want them to know that it’s important that they do,” he said.

The ongoing investigation by local authorities remains active, and both the local district attorney and the sheriff’s department in Taos are handling the case. Meanwhile, Hedges faces two felony charges that could result in significant prison time if convicted.

Team Summit has reiterated its support for the victim and stressed its commitment to maintaining safe environments for young athletes. All coaches are required to undergo stringent background checks and SafeSport training, and the organization is reviewing its policies and practices in light of these troubling allegations.