Robert Griffith, a former swim coach in Florida, has been added to USA Swimming’s public list of “Individuals Permanently Suspended or Ineligible,” according to an updated version posted this week.
Griffith’s ban came after being arrested in Panama City, Florida in January on charges of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child under the age of 12. Griffith has been accused of allegedly touching a 7-year old in a sexual manner.
The 31-year old was most recently a swim coach with the Panama City Swim Team.
Griffith was banned according to three sections of the USA Swimming Code of Conduct:
304.3.6 Conviction of, imposition of a deferred sentence for, or any plea of guilty or no contest at any time, past or present, or the existence of any pending charges, for (i) any felony, (ii) any offense involving use, possession, distribution or intent to distribute illegal drugs or substances, (iii) any crime involving sexual misconduct, or (iv) any criminal offense against a minor.
304.3.8 (a) Any inappropriate sexual conduct or advance, or other inappropriate oral, written, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature at any time, past or present, directed towards an athlete or any person under the age of eighteen (18) by (i) a coach member or other non-athlete member, or (ii) any other adult participating in any capacity whatsoever in the activities of USA Swimming (whether such adult is a member or not).
304.3.19 Any other material and intentional act, conduct or omission not provided for above, which is detrimental to the image or reputation of USA Swimming, a LSC or the sport of swimming.