Burbank PD News Release: Former High School Coach Charged in Theft Case

Burbank, CA (June 5, 2024) – A former, local high school basketball coach has been charged with theft in connection with his official capacity.

In December of 2023, the Burbank Police Department was contacted by the Burbank Unified School District about possible theft of funds by Mr. Austin Pope, a varsity basketball coach at John Burroughs High School.  Mr. Pope was employed by the district but has since been terminated.

The monthslong police investigation included obtaining witness and victim statements and the review of financial records.  The investigation has revealed that Mr. Pope misappropriated funds he was entrusted with in his official capacity as a coach.  The case was reviewed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, who referred it to the Burbank City Attorney’s Office.  The Burbank City Attorney’s Office has since reviewed the case and filed one count of Theft by False Pretenses Exceeding $950, in violation of California Penal Code Section 532(a), against Mr. Pope.

Mr. Pope is due to appear in Los Angeles Superior Court on June 28, 2024, for arraignment.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Burbank Police Department Investigations Division, at (818) 238-3210.

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Questions regarding this statement should be directed to Sergeant Stephen Turner at (818) 238-3240 or [email protected]