KENT COUNTY, Mich. — A former Kent County gymnastics coach suspected of sexual assault has been extradited after he was arrested in Florida earlier this month.
The suspect, 49-year-old Shannon Guay, checked into the Kent County Jail Wednesday, according to the Kent County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO).
Deputies say Guay is accused of sexually assaulting five victims across three separate cases between 2006 and 2008. The victims were all minors when the alleged crimes took place.
He was arrested in Charlotte County, Florida, on May 10.
READ MORE: Former Kent County gymnastics coach arrested for sexually assaulting minors
We’re told Guay was once known as “Coach Jake” and worked at various businesses across West Michigan – including gyms, dance studios and martial arts centers – from the ‘90s through 2010.
The investigation into Guay began in March 2023 after someone left voicemails at Aerials & Baranis Gymnastics describing allegations of multiple assaults involving a former worker, according to KCSO.
Guay is facing six counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and seven counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charges involve five separate victims, who were all minors at the time, and the incidents occurred at three different locations in Kent County.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office says Guay lived in Kent County until around 2010 when he moved to Florida. Guay worked as a coach for Aerials & Baranis Gymnastics and there may be more victims or individuals with information about the case.
Those with knowledge regarding prior experience with him are encouraged to connect with investigators by calling 616-632-6125.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, there are many resources in Kent County willing to help. Some resources are the Grand Rapids YWCA or the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County. Reach out to the YWCA 24-Hour Confidential Helpline | 616.454.YWCA (616.454.9922) or the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent Country at 616.336.5160.
