PLEASANT HILL, CA – A respected faculty member and track coach at Diablo Valley College is facing serious charges related to pimping and human trafficking. Kyle Lee Whitmore, 39, was taken into custody on September 7 following accusations from two women who claim he forced them into prostitution.
Whitmore, a tenured communication studies instructor and track coach at the college, was arrested after the first woman reported her allegations to the college authorities. The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has since added pandering to the list of charges against Whitmore. A second woman has also come forward with similar allegations, although specific details of the alleged crimes have not been disclosed.
Following his arrest, Whitmore was placed on administrative leave by the college. The Contra Costa Community College District expressed deep concern over the allegations, emphasizing the importance of the safety and well-being of its students and staff. The district stated that they take accusations of inappropriate behavior by their employees very seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety and security of everyone on their campuses.
Whitmore joined the college in 2014 and was recognized as track coach of the year during the 2021-22 academic year. He was known for his commitment to student welfare, often speaking about the resources available for students, including basic needs programs, food pantries, and tutoring services.
Currently, Whitmore is being held without bail at a local jail. There is no record of a defense attorney representing him.