Q&A: School District Answers Questions About Cobbert Case
Spokeswoman Says Coach Was Suspended Immediately
Earlier this week, news of allegations against a Fleming Island High School wrestling coach surfaced. Paul James “P.J.” Cobbert is accused of sexually assaulting an underage wrestler multiple times starting in 2018.
Clay News & Views contacted Clay County District Schools with questions to clarify what actions were taken in light of the allegations. Below are the responses we received from the district spokeswoman, Terri Dennis:
Clay News & Views: When was the Clay County School Board or School District informed of the investigation into Cobbert?
Terri Dennis: September 24, 2024
CN&V: What action was taken after being informed? Was he removed from contact with students pending the investigation? Was he, at any point, fired or suspended? If so, what date did this occur?
Dennis: Yes, he was suspended from all positions on September 24, 2024.
CN&V: After Cobbert was no longer coaching wrestling at Fleming Island High School, were parents notified? If so, how and when?
Dennis: Yes, a parent meeting was held on November 12 (before any practices) to inform parents that Coach Cobbert was under investigation and that there would be an interim coach while the investigation was ongoing.
CN&V: Has Cobbert been on any school campuses or other School District property after being removed from his position?
Dennis: He has visited the campus of his child three times (which is not FIHS), and on all three occasions, he was in the capacity of a parent, not as a coach or an employee. He was never alone with any students and legally is permitted to have access to his child on a school campus.
CN&V: What actions were taken to investigate the possibility of additional victims?
Dennis: The Clay County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) is the lead investigating agency and any victims should contact them directly.
CN&V: Was the Florida Department of Education informed of Cobbert’s removal from his role and/or the investigation into his actions?
Dennis: Yes, our Human Resources department has reported Coach Cobbert to the Office of Professional Practices with the Florida Department of Education, and an investigation is underway. We are fully cooperating with the appropriate authorities and will continue to do so.