Former Tucson high school wrestling coach arrested on sex crime charge

TUCSON, AZ - A Tucson wrestling coach has been arrested after reportedly engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.

According to the Pima County Sheriff's Department, deputies were called Saturday to respond to a suspicious van parked in the 6600 block of South Gila Avenue.

Police said when they looked inside the vehicle, they found 53-year-old Richard Ortiz and a 15-year-old girl, both only partially dressed.

During their investigation, police said they confirmed that Ortiz was involved in sexual activity with the girl.

Both the victim and Ortiz were taken in for further questioning.

Detectives learned that Ortiz had been a wrestling coach for Tucson High School until January of this year and later took on a role of liaison, in which he was still involved in working with students.

The victim was a member of the wrestling team and continued to receive private wrestling lessons by Ortiz.

Police said Saturday night, the victim went with Ortiz to help set  up a special event. Ortiz was supposed to take her back home, but instead took the victim to the south end of Gila Avenue, where he reportedly engaged in sexual activity with her.

Ortiz was arrested for sexual conduct with a minor and was booked into the Pima County Adult Detention Center.