Phoenix Man Sentenced for Child Sexual Exploitation

Patrick Battillo, known as 'Mr. ORNG', receives 3.5 years in prison for luring minors

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:06am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the serious consequences of a crime against children.The harsh sentencing of a former high school coach for child sexual exploitation underscores the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable students.Phoenix Today

Patrick Battillo, a former high school basketball coach in the Phoenix area known as 'Mr. ORNG' to Phoenix Suns fans, was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison on Friday for child sexual exploitation charges. Battillo was arrested two years ago for allegedly offering juvenile students money in exchange for sexually explicit images and videos.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child sexual exploitation, particularly involving trusted community figures like coaches who abuse their positions of authority. It also raises concerns about the safety of students and the need for stronger oversight and safeguards in youth-serving organizations.

The details

Battillo was the head coach of the Peoria High School boys basketball team and also volunteered at the West Valley campus. School administrators contacted authorities after learning of Battillo's alleged offers to juvenile students of money in exchange for sexually explicit images and videos. He was arrested two years ago on suspicion of luring a minor for sexual exploitation and child sex trafficking.

  • Battillo was arrested two years ago.
  • Battillo was sentenced on Friday.

The players

Patrick Battillo

A former high school basketball coach in the Phoenix area known as 'Mr. ORNG' to Phoenix Suns fans, who was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison for child sexual exploitation charges.

Peoria High School

The school where Battillo was the head coach of the boys basketball team and also volunteered.

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The takeaway

This sentencing serves as a reminder of the importance of robust safeguards and oversight in youth-serving organizations to protect vulnerable students from predatory behavior by those in positions of trust.