A legendary head softball coach for Minisink Valley High School remains under investigation by the district several weeks into a “meticulous” probe under the state Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), according to school officials.

Coach Bruce Guyette is accused of inappropriately touching a teenage player at the end of an away game in May. The incident was allegedly captured on video and seemingly shows Guyette high-five the player before his hand appears to touch her lower backside. He’s then seen high-fiving other players while the student freezes and stands still.

“The allegations did not rise to the level of a Title IX complaint, but a DASA investigation continues,” says district communications specialist Nancy Kriz.

A Title IX complaint is a written complaint of sexual harassment or discrimination filed by a student or school employee. DASA pertains to allegations of harassment, bullying, cyberbullying and discrimination in schools.

Guyette is a record-winning coach with 647 wins and has taken Minisink to 13 Section 9 championships. He was suspended by the district following the complaint of inappropriate conduct on May 7 and removed from attending practices and games. Kriz says it’s not clear how long the investigation will take.

“We are in the midst of a meticulous investigation, and we continue to appreciate the patience of everyone while we do this important work,” she says.

The allegations against the well-known, longtime coach have sparked a firestorm of controversy, including widespread support for Guyette from many members of the community in social media posts about the case.

Victim advocates, however, say they’re concerned the response may send the wrong message to both the young woman who came forward, as well as others in similar situations.

“It takes incredible courage to come forward and share what has happened to you and when you share that with who we perceive as helpers and also to community and friends and family, and you aren’t believed, the level of re-traumatization is significant,” says Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier, the executive director of Fearless, a nonprofit that works with victims and survivors of abuse in Orange and Sullivan counties. “It should be no surprise to any of us that many individuals who perpetrate these behaviors are often perceived as well-respected, known, visible individuals within our communities. It’s very easy when people come forward to pick apart credibility and motives and that’s not any of our roles.”

News 12 reached out to Guyette about the allegations, but he declined to comment.

State police say they are not involved in the investigation.