Former tennis coach accused of sex crimes in 2007 found living in cult and arrested

SHALIMAR, Fla. (TCD) -- A former tennis coach accused of sexual assault against a minor in 2007 was recently located in Massachusetts and reportedly taken into custody.

According to a news release from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Mark Burns allegedly had a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old female between March 2006 and March 2007. He reportedly told the victim’s mother about the relationship in March 2007 and even confessed that he wanted to marry her.

The victim’s mother contacted authorities, the Sheriff’s Office said. At the time, investigators reportedly went to his home on 7th Avenue, but he had fled and has been on the run since then. The search continued, but authorities did not find Burns until recently, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Burns, who is now 70 years old, was reportedly located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, working at a deli with the 12 Tribes cult, a community that centers on self-governed living. He was taken into custody on Oct. 27, and will be extradited back to Okaloosa County, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Burns reportedly faces multiple charges, including unlawful sexual activity with a minor.

MORE:

• News Release - Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office