Soccer coach arrested on sex charges

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - A former Holyoke Catholic girls soccer coach has been arrested on sexual exploitation of children charges.

Michael DuPont, 36, formerly of Westfield, but currently of Chicopee was arrested Thursday morning at his home.

According to the criminal complaint, on Dec. 26th, 2012, Vermont State Police were contacted by a "Minor A" victim's mother, who reported that on Dec. 19th, 2012, she inadvertently discovered inappropriate e-mail correspondence between her minor child and another individual.  According to the complaint, agents met with "Minor A" who told them that in October 2012, she was contacted by an individual named "Mike" in a chatroom who indicated he was a 37-year old soccer coach in Massachusetts.  "Minor A" told "Mike" that she was 14 years old.  It is alleged that Minor A also communicated with "Mike" via webcam when she was asked to "put on a show" over the webcam for him.  Agents later identified "Mike" as Michael DuPoint.

If convicted DuPont faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, to be followed by mandatory minimum of five years and maximum life term of supervised release.

Springfield Diocese spokesman Mark DuPont sent us this statement.  Mark DuPont is not related to Michael DuPont.

"Holyoke Catholic and diocesan officials learned just this afternoon (3/21/13) of the arrest of Michael Dupont. We were, of course, shocked by this news.  During his tenure as a soccer coach no allegations or related complaints were ever brought to our attention. Investigators have not found any evidence at this stage that involves Holyoke Catholic students.

Like all employees of the diocese, its parishes, schools and institutions, he underwent the normal screening, CORI and child abuse prevention training procedures. He likewise signed a code of conduct.  His employment contract with the school ended last November, so he was not currently employed by the school.
Working with the United States Attorney's Office, school and diocesan officials will be meeting with parents, faculty and students, starting with parents of soccer players tomorrow and then early next week with the larger school community.

The Bishop has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement officials in regards to their ongoing investigation.  He also asks the prayers of the entire community for those whose lives are tragically victimized by these actions."