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Former Waukegan High coach pleads not guilty to sex charges

A former Waukegan High School coach pleaded not guilty Thursday to felony accusations that he was having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student.

Mark Basa, 34, of the 2900 block of Nemesis Drive in Waukegan, pleaded not guilty in front of Judge James Booras to three counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse with a victim between the ages of 13 and 18, and three counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse with a victim five years younger when holding a position of trust.

Basa remains free from Lake County jail after posting the required 10 percent of his $250,000 bond.

Defense attorney Steve McCullom did not comment after Basa's arraignment Thursday morning.

Basa was charged after an investigation launched when a school district resource officer was contacted by a Waukegan Unit District 60 administrator and told about a possible relationship between Basa and the juvenile student two years ago, authorities said.

Authorities said Basa had worked as an assistant coach for the high school's rifle team for six years. Investigators do not believe he was involved with more than one student, officials said.

School officials said Basa is not a teacher in District 60.

Officials said they cooperated with the law enforcement during the investigation.

Basa could face three to seven years in prison on each count, if convicted at trial. His trial is tentatively scheduled for June 20. He is due back in court Friday for a bond modification hearing.

Waukegan High School coach charged with sexual abuse of student

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