Investigation finds award-winning Minisink varsity coach violated harassment laws
Bruce Guyette, who was recently elected into the New York State High School Softball Hall of Fame and has led winning varsity programs, is now accused of harassment that an independent investigator determined rose to the level of violating state and district law.
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An award-winning Minisink Valley varsity softball coach has been found in violation of New York’s Dignity for All Students Act following a district investigation into allegations of misconduct, News 12 has learned exclusively.
Bruce Guyette, who was recently elected into the New York State High School Softball Hall of Fame and has led winning varsity programs, is now accused of harassment that an independent investigator determined rose to the level of violating state and district law.
The probe was launched after a player alleged Guyette touched her backside in unwanted contact on the field earlier this year. According to a source, that allegation prompted additional complaints and interviews with between 15 and 30 students across multiple teams, including basketball and softball.
Sources tell News 12 the independent report was more than 100 pages long and found Guyette guilty of more than a dozen DASA violations. The district has not said what, if any, disciplinary measures will follow.
In a statement to News 12, Minisink Valley director of communications Nancy Kriz said:
“The district’s thorough and fair investigation has been completed. We appreciate the understanding of interested parties regarding the length of time taken in this process. Meticulous investigations take time. The involved parties have been notified. As a reminder, by law the district cannot discuss any aspect of this investigation, including the DASA report of the independent investigator, and/or its findings. Strict FERPA laws prohibit this as these laws protect the privacy of all involved. We appreciate everyone’s understanding.”
One victim’s family wrote to the district with additional concerns, asking what safeguards will be put in place to prevent future occurrences and whether Guyette will be barred from contacting players or attending school events. They also urged officials to forward the findings to state authorities to review his coaching certifications.
Guyette responded to News 12 by email, saying he “respectfully declines to comment.”
The investigation comes just weeks after Guyette celebrated being elected into the New York State High School Softball Hall of Fame — a post he shared on social media.
News 12 has also reached out to the New York State Education Department and the state athletic association for comment on the findings and Hall of Fame induction but has not yet heard back.
Parents News 12 interviewed anonymously for this report say they remain in the dark about what steps the district will take to protect players going forward.
