Nationwide — Willie Alexander, Jr., a 50-year-old former assistant basketball coach in Mississippi, pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a 14-year-old student-athlete. The crimes, spanning months, involved grooming and out-of-state trips. He faces up to 110 years in prison.
According to WLBT, the victim’s mother alerted Clinton Police in June 2022 after her son disclosed the abuse. The teen revealed that Alexander had targeted him for months at the coach’s Clinton home, coercing him into sexual acts with promises and gifts to gain his trust.
Alexander took the teen on trips to Dallas and New Orleans, with plans to visit Disney World. The abuse continued until the boy spoke out. After the disclosure, Alexander showed up uninvited at the family’s home, admitting to “teaching” the boy how to use a condom when confronted by the mother.
The following day, Alexander abruptly left a basketball game he was coaching. Police searched his home, discovering sex toys, lubricants, and multiple recording devices, including a hidden camera disguised in a Glade air freshener in a shared bathroom. A van on the property contained additional evidence, such as silicone devices.
Detectives brought Alexander to the Clinton Police Department for questioning. He later admitted guilt to sexual battery and two counts of exploitation of a minor. His sentencing is set for October 15, 2025, with a potential 110-year prison term.
Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens praised the victim’s courage, calling him a hero for exposing Alexander.
“A coach should be a role model, not a predator. By speaking up, this child is a hero who helped bring an abuser to justice,” said District Attorney Owens. “We will protect our children. We will protect our community, and we will hold abusers accountable.”