A well-known figure skating coach in North Texas is facing criminal charges following his arrest in Collin County.
Benjamin Shroats, 47, is charged with indecency with a child, sexual contact, and sexual misconduct. Allen police said the allegations stem from two of his athletes.
Police said Shroats was taken into custody on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at his home in McKinney.
Investigators said the case began Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, after a report alleged Shroats engaged in inappropriate relationships with two athletes. Police said one of those relationships reportedly began when the athlete was a minor.
Authorities have not released details about where or when the alleged abuse occurred.
A well-known figure skating coach in Collin County is charged with indecency with a child and sexual misconduct after two athletes came forward, according to Allen police. Investigators said one alleged inappropriate relationship began when the athlete was a minor. NBC 5’s Meredith Yeomans has more.
Shroats is a familiar name in the North Texas skating community. He previously competed as a pairs skater and has coached in Collin County for more than a decade.
His resume includes working with Amber Glenn many years ago, long before she became a 2026 Olympian. He also appeared in an NBC 5 report about Glenn in 2014.
Shroats has been a longtime member of the Allen-based Dallas Figure Skating Club, which is required for participation in U.S. Figure Skating events.
Dallas Figure Skating Club President Mary Pottenger sent a message to the club’s approximately 1,000 members on Wednesday addressing the arrest:
“I’m reaching out regarding a News article dated February 18, 2026, reporting that the Allen Police Department has arrested a figure skating coach, Benjamin Shroats, on a charge of indecency with a child. We know news like this is upsetting, and we want our families to know we take concerns involving our members and the adult coaches who train them very seriously. The safety and welfare of children is our top priority. It’s also important to clarify the Club’s role. Dallas Figure Skating Club does not hire, employ, or supervise coaches. All coaches who provide private lessons do so as independent coaches, and lesson arrangements are made directly between families and the coach. In addition, the Club does not own, operate, or manage any ice rinks. We respect the investigative process and trust that the Allen Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation, and also respect the privacy of those involved. If you have information that may be relevant or if you have concerns about a child who may have been in contact with this coach, please contact the Allen Police Department directly for guidance and assistance. If you have general Club-related questions, you may reply to this email, and we will respond as we are able. Thank you for your continued commitment to keeping our skating community safe and supportive for all.”
Jail records show Shroats remains in the Collin County Detention Center. His bond has been set at $200,000.
No attorney was listed for Shroats as of Wednesday.
Allen police said the investigation is active and ongoing.