Basketball coach arrested for alleged lewd acts

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Police have arrested a basketball coach accused of some sickening foul play with young boys, but people who know him are standing by the coach.

Fifty-year-old Lorenzo Green has been a role model to children in his neighborhood for years, community members said, but he now faces a list of charges including lewd and lascivious molestation.

Green has been teaching children basketball at a neighborhood court for over two decades, according to residents. "A father figure, a role model, a caring coach," said one teen at the court.

It is how many in the playground described Green. "Coach Green has been coaching children for at least 20-some years," said Lurnard Rogers, a fellow coach.

However, according to Miami Police, Green lured boys to his home, played pornographic movies for them and convinced them to partake in masturbation contests in exchange for prize money. "It's very sad because indeed the parents rely on him being a role model, and that's exactly what he wasn't," said Miami Police Officer Kenia Reyes.

He was arrested after two of the boys he coached said Green invited them over to his home and allowed them to watch porn and take part in the lewd contest. "We would never let these kids watch pornography," said Rogers.

Laqwin Walter, who has been coached by the suspect said he has spent the night at Green's home and said Green never did anything inappropriate or wrong with him, nor did he see such things. "We played games, pool, watched TV and that's it," added Darius Walter, who has also been coached by Green.

Parents and fellow coaches in the community do not believe the accusations against Green, pointing out he would spend his own money on new shoes and clothes for the kids in the neighborhood. They also believe the two brothers making the accusations have a hidden agenda. "Probably mad with him," said Darrel Walter, "because he kicked them off the team."

Green is being held on $90,000 bond. When and if he gets out, he will be on house arrest and have to wear an ankle monitor. He has also been ordered to stay away from all children.

Police fear Green may have more victims out there including some who may be adults since he has been coaching for so many years. If you you believe you were a victim of Green, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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