Former gymnastics coach sentenced to jail for sexual assaults

SARVER, Pa. — A former gymnastics coach convicted of sexually assaulting students is headed to jail.

Keith Callen, 45, of Sarver was sentenced Tuesday to 13 to 26 years.

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The assaults took place at gymnastics facilities in Butler and Allegheny counties between 2013 and 2014, authorities said.

In court, the teenage victim wanted her letter read out loud. "You preyed on my innocence, you have hurt me more than you can imagine physically, mentally, and emotionally. All of the abuse hurt me and changed the direction of my life."

Judge Donna Jo McDaniel agreed with the victim, saying during sentencing, "I think you are a danger to this community."

"It was very difficult, the trial is very hard," defense attorney Patrick Thomassey told

"I didn't try the case I wish I had, we are going to appeal the case and see what we can do."

Callen has been in jail since his conviction in March, because the judge said he violated a no-contact order for holding hands with a 16-year-old girl while the jury deliberated.

Callen is a husband and father of three.

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• Gymnastics coach accused of sexually assaulting student faces 2 new charges
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