BREA

The city and Brea-Olinda Unified have rejected a $10-million claim filed on behalf of a 14-year-old boy allegedly molested by a junior high school basketball coach. The claim, which sought punitive damages, alleged that Craig Lee Coleman--a Brea Junior High School coach and physical education teacher--”assaulted, battered and touched [the minor] in a sexual fashion.” Claims are typically forerunners to lawsuits. Douglas Honig, attorney representing the 14-year-old, said a lawsuit likely will be filed.

In late October, the student said he was touched by Coleman and notified the school principal. Four male students have accused Coleman of sexual misconduct. A spokeswoman for the Orange County district attorney’s office said Coleman has been charged with one count of performing a lewd act on a child under the age of 15 and three counts of performing a lewd act on a child under 14; a preliminary hearing in the case is set for May 21. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of 27 years in prison.

Coleman has worked as a physical education teacher and basketball coach at the school since 1994. Coleman’s attorney, Stephen Klarich, said his client is handling the allegations well and that he will continue to fight the charges in court.