Mount Pleasant police say they responded to 1251 Park West Blvd for an assault between a coach and a 14-year-old at the Park West soccer field on Tuesday, March 6 at around 6:20 p.m.
Police say Arthur Geer was arrested on Tuesday for assault and battery in the second degree.
When police arrived on the scene, they were told a victim was reportedly grabbed by the neck by the soccer coach, Geer.
Police say the victim said they were playing soccer on the field and were then asked by Geer to leave the field due to an upcoming game. When they were slow to leave, Geer took their soccer ball and placed it in his bookbag, the report states.
Officials say the victim said the players went to get the ball and began cursing at Geer, who then removed the ball and kicked it across the field.
Police say one of the players reacted by kicking another one of Geer’s balls across the field. In response, Geer approached the victim and put his hands across the victim’s throat/windpipe and threw them to the ground, the report states.
Police say there was significant size disparity between Geer and the victim and saw that the victim had abrasions to the side of the neck consistent with the story.
Police say they were also shown a Snapchat video of the incident, which police say showed the argument over the soccer balls, the coach kicking a ball and then grabbing the victim by the throat with one hand and pushing the victim to the ground.
Police say the victim reacted by throwing shoes at him while Geer had the victim by the throat. Officials say the victim said it was done in self-defense.
The mother of the victim was called to the scene according to police. Police called EMS to have the victim checked out.
Officials say they then spoke with Geer after his game and he reportedly admitted to placing his hand around the victim’s neck and throwing the victim to the ground without being physically provoked.
Officials say Geer also provided a post-Miranda confession of the same.
Police say Geer was taken to Charleston County Jail where he was booked.