The 32 year-old Ryan Zellner of Allouez, a former teacher and head girls basketball coach at Kiel high school, whose facing a dozen felony counts of having inappropriate relationships with at least five students, appeared in Manitowoc County Circuit court Wednesday afternoon for both his initial and preliminary hearings. By waiving his right to a preliminary hearing, Manitowoc county circuit judge Darryl Deets bound Zellner over for “further proceedings.”
Charges against Zellner include child sexual assault and child enticement. Prosecutors have said that Zellner had fondled one girl, and asked for pictures showing her in a number of sexual positions. Other allegations include phone sex — exchanging nude photos and inappropriate comments.
Manitowoc county district attorney Mark Rohrer says additional charges are expected to be filed.
Kiel police chief Dave Funkhouser, who is a spokesperson for a regional “multi-jurisdictional” task force, says that several more victims have come forward.
The defense withdrew its motion to modify bail from $100,000 cash. Zellner remains in the Manitowoc County jail, and his next scheduled court appearance is for an arraignment may 27th. He faces up to 270 years if convicted on all charges.
Brian Norton report 1:34