PLEASANT HILL, CA – In a shocking turn of events, a well-regarded faculty member and track coach at Diablo Valley College has been arrested on charges of pimping and human trafficking. Kyle Lee Whitmore, 39, was apprehended on September 7 after two women accused him of forcing them into prostitution.
Whitmore, who serves as a tenured communication studies instructor and track coach at the college, was arrested following the first woman’s report to the college authorities. The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has since leveled additional charges of pandering against Whitmore. A second woman has also leveled similar allegations against him, although the specifics of the alleged crimes remain undisclosed.
In the wake of his arrest, Whitmore was put on administrative leave by the college. The Contra Costa Community College District expressed its devastation over the serious allegations, reiterating its commitment to the safety and welfare of its students and staff. The district affirmed its dedication to addressing any accusations of inappropriate behavior by its employees and maintaining a safe environment on its campuses.
Whitmore, who joined the college in 2014, was named track coach of the year during the 2021-22 academic year. He was often seen advocating for student welfare, frequently discussing the resources available to students, such as basic needs programs, food pantries, and tutoring services.
Whitmore is currently detained at a local jail without bail. There is no record of a defense attorney on his behalf.