Monroe AAU track coach accused of asking student to perform sexual acts

MONROE, La. (KTVE/KARD) — On February 28, 2025, officers of the Monroe Police Department began investigating a harassment complaint that reportedly occurred on Adams Street. During the investigation, the mother of a juvenile victim reported that the victim’s AAU track coach, Joseph “Joe” Byrd, allegedly requested the victim to perform sexual acts with him in exchange for payment.

According to court documents, authorities observed the text messages that were sent to the victim from a contact labeled as “Coach Joe.” On February 23, 2025, Byrd allegedly texted the victim and asked them to perform sexual acts with him, and the victim refused. Byrd was reportedly apologetic after the victim refused his advances.

The victim also told Byrd that he made them uncomfortable with his request. According to authorities, they learned that Byrd was previously investigated for a similar incident involving a juvenile who was on his track team.

Byrd was arrested on March 7, 2025, and charged with Soliciting for Prostitutes, Prohibited Sexual Conduct between Educator and Student, and Telephone Communications/ Improper Language/ Harassment. He was released from the Ouachita Correctional Center on March 10, 2025, after posting a $5,000 bond.