Former Coach of Olympian Amber Glenn Faces Sex Crime Allegations

Benjamin Shroats charged with sexual assault and indecency involving a child

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A 47-year-old skating instructor who previously coached US Olympic champion Amber Glenn is facing accusations of sexual misconduct with two of his former trainees, including one who was reportedly a minor at the time. Shroats has been formally charged with sexual assault and indecency involving a child following an investigation initiated on February 15.

Why it matters

The allegations against Shroats, a longtime figure skating coach in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, have sent shockwaves through the local skating community. The case raises concerns about the safety and oversight of youth athletes, as well as the need for stronger protections and reporting mechanisms within the sport.

The details

According to the Allen Police, the investigation was launched after a report that Shroats had inappropriate relationships with two athletes, one of whom was reportedly a minor at the time. Shroats was arrested at his home on February 18 and is currently being held on $200,000 bond at the Collin County Detention Center. His lawyer has publicly refuted the accusations, stating that Shroats has been a "well-respected" figure skating coach in the local community for the past 30 years.

  • The investigation was initiated on February 15, 2026.
  • Shroats was arrested at his residence on February 18, 2026.

The players

Benjamin Shroats

A 47-year-old skating instructor who formerly coached US Olympic champion Amber Glenn and has been charged with sexual assault and indecency involving a child.

Amber Glenn

A US Olympic champion figure skater who was coached by Shroats when she was 9 years old.

Scott Edgett

Shroats' legal representative, who has publicly refuted the accusations against his client.

Mary Pottenger

The president of the Dallas Figure Skating Club, which Shroats has been an active member of for more than a decade.

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What they’re saying

“For the past 30 years, Mr. Shroats has been a well-respected figure skating coach/instructor in the local DFW community. Out of respect for the judicial process and potential future jurors, we will not be litigating this matter through media commentary.”

— Scott Edgett, Shroats' legal representative (NBC News)

“We know news like this is upsetting, and we want our families to know we take concerns involving our members and the adult coaches who train them very seriously. The safety and welfare of children is our top priority.”

— Mary Pottenger, President of the Dallas Figure Skating Club (KXAS-TV)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Benjamin Shroats to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for stronger safeguards and oversight within youth sports, particularly in individual sports like figure skating where coaches have significant one-on-one access to athletes. It underscores the importance of comprehensive background checks, mandatory reporting protocols, and athlete advocacy resources to protect vulnerable young people.