Wilcox was charged with one third-degree felony count of aggravated child abuse after an altercation with one of her players in 2022, plus a class B misdemeanor for breaking the player’s phone.
In May 2023, 3rd District Court Judge Richard Mrazik dismissed the charges. He found the coach’s use of force was justified to protect others, though not necessarily justified to protect herself.
Prosecutors appealed and on May 7 — almost two years later — the Utah Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case. They’ll now decide whether to reinstate the charges and send Wilcox to trial.
Central to the appeal is whether Mrazik wrongly decided that prosecutors had failed to prove that Wilcox’s use of physical force was not justified.
Charging documents say that during a heated argument at the Park City Municipal Athletic & Recreation Center, Wilcox restrained a 16-year-old girl from behind after the girl slapped her. Both fell to the ground. The player subsequently kicked another coach who came over.
In their appeal, prosecutors said district court was wrong because Wilcox couldn't know whether the athlete was a danger to anyone else. They also claim the coach used “disproportionate, deadly force” and choked the player.
After the incident the Park City School District placed Wilcox on administrative leave and now says she no longer works at the district.
Justices took the matter under advisement. It’s not yet clear how soon they might rule.
