Wi-Hi football coach placed on leave during probe

SALISBURY -- A Wicomico High School football coach under investigation by police for steroid possession and distribution, and sex offense accusations has been suspended, according to school board officials.
David Nettles, 44, was placed on administrative leave Nov. 28 immediately after the school board became aware of the allegations; however, according to board officials, no criminal charges had been filed as of late Wednesday.
"The school system is following appropriate legal and personnel procedures in the matter," said Tracy Sahler, a spokeswoman for Wicomico County public schools.
Nettles, who became head coach during the 2004-05 football season, has led the Indians to five state playoff appearances including two trips to the 2A East regional final.
Prior to taking over as head coach, he served as an assistant on the Indians' coaching staff for nine years under head coach Fred Billings.
Few details about the investigation, which is being handled by the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center, were available as of late Wednesday because Nettles had not been criminally charged.
"It's an ongoing investigation, and I cannot comment at this time," said Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis.
The Wicomico County State's Attorney's Office also declined to comment on the investigation.
It is unclear when the investigation started and the number of victims who allege they were sexually abused or used steroids is unknown.
The school board prohibits the use of steroids by students and athletes; however, there is no system in place to test students for use, according to John Fredericksen, the superintendent of schools.
"If we have a suspicion about our students, we act in a proper manner," he said.
Nettles is one of two Wi-Hi coaches who have been recently placed on leave from the school. Steven Mark Kiggins, a 43-year-old Hebron resident, was taken into police in January and charged with assault and sex offense. He has been released from the Wicomico County Detention Center on $50,000 bond, according to court records