Local youth leader faces sex charges

A local youth leader faces sex charges.

Benjamin Damron, 36, is charged with nine counts of indecent liberties with a child and one count of sexual battery,Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said. 

Damron’s three victims, all teenage boys, interacted with him in his role as a volunteer church youth leader and coach. He used his position to take advantage of the victims and sexually assault them, police said.

According to police, Damron volunteered at least four local organizations including Elevation Church, Mercy Church, Southbrook Church and Soccer Shots.  

All of the listed organizations have been notified and are cooperating in CMPD’s ongoing investigation. 

Police said the incidents not only occurred in Charlotte, but also at locations in Matthews and in Union County.  CMPD detectives have in contact with detectives from both Matthews PD and the Union County Sheriff’s Office.