Former Paxton Coach Arrested on Grooming Charges

Paul L. Meuser faces attempted sexual assault and grooming allegations involving a minor.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:37pm

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Paul L. Meuser, a longtime high school coach and teacher in Paxton, Illinois, has been arrested on charges of attempted criminal sexual assault and grooming of a minor. Meuser, 72, resigned from his position with the Paxton-Buckley-Loda school district in March, and is currently being held in the Ford County Jail ahead of a detention hearing.

Why it matters

The case has drawn intense community focus due to Meuser's lengthy and successful coaching career, including over 600 wins and four state championships. It also comes amid previous allegations of sexual misconduct involving staff in the Paxton-Buckley-Loda school district.

The details

According to court records, Meuser is accused of grooming a minor between January 2024 and December 2025, allegedly trying to lure the child with snacks, money, and emails. He is also accused of inviting the child to his home on Christmas Eve 2025 with the intent to commit a sexual act. The victim is described as being between 13 and 17 years old.

  • Meuser was arrested in Oklahoma on a Ford County warrant in March 2026.
  • A detention hearing was scheduled for March 24, 2026.
  • Meuser resigned from the Paxton-Buckley-Loda school district effective April 3, 2026.

The players

Paul L. Meuser

A 72-year-old former high school coach and teacher in Paxton, Illinois, who is facing charges of attempted criminal sexual assault and grooming of a minor.

Paxton-Buckley-Loda School District

The school district where Meuser was employed as a coach and teacher, and which has previously faced allegations of sexual misconduct involving staff.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 24 whether or not to allow Paul L. Meuser to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual misconduct allegations involving school staff, and the need for districts to have robust policies and procedures in place to protect students and address any reports of inappropriate behavior.