CRESTWOOD, Mo. — Police are asking for people to come forward after a former youth umpire was arrested for inappropriate sexual contact with two teens.
“You trust that adults will take care of children,” said Crestwood Police Sgt. James Jones. “Back in June of this year, we were contacted by a female and her mom that said she had been sexually assaulted.”
An investigation by the Crestwood Police Department led police to Zachary Barebo, who they believed used his position as an umpire at the Affton Athletic Association to prey on multiple teens.
“Through that they began a conversation, which lead to Snapchat contact back and forth, to meeting in person,” Sgt. Jones said.
ORIGINAL REPORTING: Former Affton umpire charged with sex offenses against 2 minors
Barebo has since been arrested and currently faces 11 charges, including counts of Sodomy and Sexual Molestation. He is currently in the St. Louis Co. Jail facing a $500,000 bond.
Sgt. Jones is concerned there may be more victims throughout the St. Louis area.
“We are already receiving phone calls about other incidents, and his propensity in other things, so we are looking into those as well,” Sgt. Jones said. “I encourage anyone to speak to their children if they’ve had any contact with him.”
While Sgt. Jones acknowledges that conversation can be difficult to have with a child he says it’s an important part of being a protective parent.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s him or someone else,” said Sgt. Jones. “Just contact your kids and keep that line of communication open so that we can keep our kids safe.”
The Afton Athletic Association provided 5 On Your Side with this statement regarding the situation:
Affton Athletic Association (AAA) is aware that Zachary Alan Barebo, a former umpire at the Affton Athletic Association, was arrested and charged. In July of 2023, AAA received a complaint concerning Barebo's conduct. Officials with the club contacted the authorities and continue to cooperate with the investigation. Barebo's employment was terminated and he was prohibited from attending any AAA event or stepping on the premises of AAA. Affton Athletic Association does not believe that any of the alleged conduct took place on the premises of AAA. Affton Athletic Association strives to provide a safe and enjoyable playing experience for all athletes.