UK FIFA Employee Arrested in the US on Charges of Engaging in Sexual Activity with Underage Boy | US News
FIFA has placed a British employee on suspension following his arrest in Miami over allegations of engaging in sexual activities with an underage boy.
Jack Coles was taken into custody on Friday by federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations at a hotel located near FIFA’s headquarters in the Coral Gables area, as reported by the Miami Herald.
He is accused of having connected with a 14-year-old boy via a men’s dating app last October during a work trip from Zurich.
It is claimed he attempted to arrange another meeting with the boy last week.
The boy allegedly informed Mr. Coles that he was 16, and subsequently communicated with federal authorities.
Mr. Coles holds the position of project leader within FIFA Sound, which is responsible for organizing music for FIFA’s events and broadcasts.
“FIFA is aware of ongoing legal matters in Miami. These alleged offenses are serious and pertain to personal issues unrelated to his employment at FIFA,” the football governing body stated in a press release.
“The individual has been suspended immediately and will remain so until further notice from all duties. FIFA has no additional comments at this time,” it continued.
As reported by the Miami Herald, Mr. Coles faces charges of enticing a minor for sexual activities.
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Additionally, he is under investigation for allegedly traveling to the United States with the intention of engaging in illegal sexual conduct with a minor.
FIFA established a presence in Coral Gables in 2023, in preparation for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA’s website states that the Legal and Compliance Division in Coral Gables consists of about 100 staff members from more than 30 different countries.
This division manages the ethics and disciplinary committees, along with departments responsible for integrity and regulatory enforcement, among others.
