MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — The Muskegon County school faculty member accused of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a minor was formally charged in 60th District Court Friday afternoon.
Prosecutors charged 31-year-old Zolton Vines with criminal sexual conduct in the third degree over the relationship they allege began at some point late last year.
Vines' alleged victim, now 16, was not identified.
In court, the suspect claimed the crime "wasn't who I am."
The public defender assigned to his case interrupted Vine, advising him to stop speaking on at least one occasion while entering a not guilty plea on Vines' behalf.
According to information uncovered via the National Junior College Athletic Association, the suspect served as a junior varsity basketball coach at Muskegon Heights High School.
The Muskegon Heights Public School Academy System superintendent told 13 ON YOUR SIDE the alleged victim was not a student within the district.
The district said Vines was no longer on any of its properties, though it remained unclear Friday whether he had been fired or placed on administrative leave.
The district also said it was cooperating with investigators and that such behavior "wouldn't be tolerated."
The Muskegon Heights Police Department launched an investigation after being made aware of possible sexual inappropriate behavior involving a faculty member, since identified as Vines at Muskegon Heights Public School Academy and a student.
Police were first made aware of the possible relationship on Wednesday, June 1.
Vines remains lodged at the Muskegon County Jail and his bond was set at $100,000 during Friday's court appearance.
If released, he would not be permitted to return to work.
Vines was also ordered to keep away from children but would be required to wear a tether.
He's due in court on June 15 for a probable cause hearing.
This is an ongoing investigation. Police are asking anyone with information regarding other possible victims to contact the Muskegon Heights Police Department Detective Bureau.
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