39-year-old coach stalks 13-year-old girl, California cops say. More victims sought

A 39-year-old self-employed training coach was arrested after being accused of stalking a 13-year-old in California, deputies said.

John Anthony Ayala, of Colton and who previously worked at Inland Peak Performance, sent inappropriate texts to the girl, according to a Jan. 3 news release by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Highland station.

Ayala is also accused of showing up to places where he knew the teen would be.

A search warrant was executed at his home, and multiple electronics were taken as part of the investigation, deputies said.

“John Ayala was never an employee of F1 Training. He rented space at our facility to host his independent events. F1 Training strictly operates as a rental facility and does not employ or oversee independent coaches or their programs,” F1 Training told McClatchy News in a statement.

Inland Peak Performance wrote in a Jan. 7 Instagram post that Ayala and the facility “parted ways” between August and September for reasons unrelated to his arrest.

“Inland Peak Performance and Wellness prides itself on being a safe haven for athletes of all ages and skill levels, as well as a welcoming environment for parents and guardians to support their athletes. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity, safety, and professionalism, and we are deeply committed to maintaining a safe and supportive community,” staff said in their statement.

Ayala was arrested and booked into the Central Detention Center on charges of stalking and annoying/molesting a minor, deputies said.

Authorities believe there may be more victims and ask anyone with information to call 909-425-9793.

Colton is about a 60-mile drive east of Los Angeles.

This story was originally published January 7, 2025 at 3:07 PM with the headline "39-year-old coach stalks 13-year-old girl, California cops say. More victims sought."