Cal Poly Instructor Pleads Not Guilty to Soliciting Minor

Kevin Coulombe accused of arranging meeting with undercover detective posing as 14-year-old girl

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A 38-year-old Cal Poly instructor has pleaded not guilty to contacting and arranging a meeting with a minor for sexual purposes. Kevin Coulombe was arrested last month during a sting operation by SLO County Sheriff's detectives investigating the sexual exploitation of children. Coulombe communicated with an undercover detective posing as a 14-year-old girl and arranged a meeting with the intent of engaging in lewd behavior.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the sexual exploitation of minors and the role of authority figures in such crimes. As a Cal Poly instructor, Coulombe was in a position of trust, making the allegations particularly troubling. The case also underscores the proactive efforts of law enforcement to identify and apprehend those seeking to abuse children.

The details

According to a criminal complaint, Coulombe communicated with a detective posing as a 14-year-old girl and arranged a meeting with the purpose of exposing the minor's genitals and engaging in lewd behavior. Coulombe was arrested after detectives served search warrants at his home and Cal Poly. Prior to working at Cal Poly, Coulombe was a teacher at San Luis Obispo High School.

  • Last month, during an investigation into the sexual exploitation of children, SLO County Sheriff's detectives conducted the sting operation that led to Coulombe's arrest.
  • Coulombe is scheduled for a pre-preliminary hearing on April 7.

The players

Kevin Coulombe

A 38-year-old Cal Poly instructor who has pleaded not guilty to contacting and arranging a meeting with a minor for sexual purposes.

SLO County Sheriff's detectives

Conducted the sting operation that led to Coulombe's arrest as part of an investigation into the sexual exploitation of children.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on April 7 whether to allow Coulombe to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing threat of sexual predators targeting minors, even those in positions of trust like teachers. It underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts and community awareness to protect vulnerable children from exploitation.