ST. CLAIR COUNTY, IL – A Jiu-Jitsu instructor from Shiloh is behind bars after prosecutors filed multiple charges accusing him of sexually abusing a teenage girl who trained at the gym where he worked.
On Friday, the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office issued a 13-count warrant for 32-year-old Kody R. Strunk. The charges include five counts of criminal sexual assault, five counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, two counts involving child sexual abuse material, and one count of unlawful grooming.
Allegations Span Gym and Private Residence
Authorities say the allegations stem from an ongoing joint investigation between the Shiloh Police Department and the St. Louis County Police Department. According to officials, detectives in St. Louis County contacted Shiloh police on Jan. 30 after uncovering evidence of an inappropriate relationship between Strunk and a teenage girl.
Investigators report that the victim told police the incidents occurred both at the gym and at Strunk’s residence on Kathy Drive in Shiloh.
Ongoing Investigation
Strunk was taken into custody on Wednesday and is currently being held at the St. Louis County Jail.
Detective Sgt. Kyle Bade of the Shiloh Police Department said investigators currently believe this to be an isolated case. However, he urged anyone with information about additional victims or related misconduct to contact him at [email protected].
Illinois Attorney Explains Legal Steps for Families After Sexual Abuse by a Ju-Jitsu Instructor
Following the recent charges against Shiloh Ju-Jitsu instructor Kody R. Strunk, many families are asking what legal paths exist when a trusted coach or mentor harms a minor. To address these concerns, our team sat down with Illinois abuse lawyer Erv Nevitt about how state law allows victims and their families to seek accountability through both criminal and civil actions.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When families learn their child has been harmed by someone in a position of trust, what options do they have under Illinois law?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: The first thing families should know is that both criminal and civil paths exist. Prosecutors handle the criminal side, but survivors and their families can also bring civil claims against the individual and, in some cases, the organization that enabled the abuse. This can include the gym or training facility if there’s evidence they ignored warning signs or failed to supervise appropriately.
Banville: Does that process help families find closure beyond the criminal case?
Nevitt: It often does. Civil actions not only hold the perpetrator accountable financially but also push institutions to change their safety policies. Families get to reclaim some measure of control by standing up publicly and ensuring others are protected.
Standing Up for Survivors
Families affected by sexual abuse often face confusion and uncertainty about their next steps. Our legal team is here to help you understand your rights, explore your options, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has suffered abuse by a coach, instructor, or other trusted figure, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
