The latest rotten apple in the bjj community has been uncovered. The owner of an Ocean Springs martial arts school was arrested after allegations of sexual abuse and inappropriate conduct toward juveniles with whom he’d had contact, officials said to sunherald.

Allen Todd Pisarich led The Academy For Mixed Martial Arts, LLC. According to the page:

“Todd Pisarich is the owner/Trainer of The Academy. Todd started his first MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) over 18 years ago. Todd was also the Brazilian Jui Jitsu instructor at a major UFC fighters gym. He has received 5 Black Belts in Martial Arts. His gym focus on the fundamentals of MMA. Many believe that is the true form of self defense. Todd’s kids and adults have gone to become NAGA and National Grappling Champions, and he has also developed many Amateur and Pro Fighters in MMA.   “

WLOX.com – The News for South Mississippi

Pisarich is reportedly a black belt under Helio Soneca.

The academy in question describes itself as:

“Friendly family fun safe environment to train and learn the great art of MMA. We do not require any tricky contracts. We would love for you to call or stop by. With over 18 years training BJJ and MMA We are the best and least expensive!”

One academy review cites:

Screencap in case it’s taken down:

Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell says the investigation began in November. Pisarich was arrested Thursday afternoon. Ezell says the investigation is ongoing and additional charges could be brought.

He is currently out on bond according to wlox – In a court room Monday morning, the 48-year-old faced a judge for the first time. His bond was set at $40,000; $20,000 for each count of sexual battery of a juvenile in a position of trust.

“We started an investigation into the matter, continued working on it gathering evidence and consulting with the District Attorney’s Office,” said Sheriff Mike Ezell.

Ezell’s department was notified in November about the alleged misconduct, which resulted in U.S. Marshals arresting Pisarich last week.

“As time has gone by, we’ve continued to work the case. We’ve followed the information, had witnesses and folks come forward, and victims have been spoken with. After consulting with the District Attorney’s Office, we went forward with the charges,” said Ezell.

Judge Larry Wilson ordered Pisarich, who has no prior felony convictions, to have no contact with the alleged victim.

The judge also said both counts of the alleged misconduct occurred on Oct. 13, 2016.

“We are continuing with the investigation. If there is potentially more victims and more charges to come, we’ll continue with the investigation,” Ezell said. “We’re working closely with the DA’s office on this, and if more charges come out, we will make the appropriate charge at the appropriate time.”

Ezell asks people who know anything more in regards to this case to contact his department.