Eddie La Salle was expected to take over as Varsity Head Coach for the basketball team at Chula Vista’s Hilltop High School this season after serving as an assistant last year. Instead, just days before the season, he is out of the job and facing accusations of embezzlement.
An investigation is now underway into potentially illegal behavior according to Sweetwater Union High School District Director of Grants and Communication, Manny Rubio.
Rubio confirms to NBC 7, the investigation doesn’t involve misconduct with students and the allegations are more white collar in nature.
La Salle informed the team last week of his dismissal according to parents of players on the team. At least two parents say they became concerned after the money from a recent team fundraiser disappeared.
As a Head Coach, La Salle oversaw the funds.
One parent told NBC 7 that La Salle admitted to him in a text message he was let go for “mishandling the team’s fund."
NBC 7 emailed La Salle last week for comment, but he has not replied.
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The school district plans on contacting the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD), which would handle a criminal investigation.
A spokesperson with the CVPD says they have not yet been made aware of the situation.
