Co-owner of Martial Arts School Arrested for Alleged Sexual Misconduct
Photo: Ramon Pruitt
DANVILLE — A co-owner of a martial arts school has been arrested on suspicion of sexual misconduct with a minor. His arrest follows a six-week investigation prompted by a report of inappropriate sexual behavior.
Assisted by detectives from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, Danville police started an investigation on January 14. It was prompted by a report that the suspect engaged inappropriate sexual behavior with a student on the premises.
Ultimately, this inquiry led the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office to file felony charges. The suspect in the case is identified as 63-year-old Ramon Pruitt, a resident of San Geronimo.
Pruitt has been teaching martial arts to children in Danville since 1997. He is co-owner of Danville Karate International, located at the Village Shopping Center, on Town and Country Drive in Danville.
Authorities issued a warrant for his arrest on February 20. On the following day, Danville officers were able to locate and arrest Pruitt in the city of Oakland at 12:50 p.m.
Pruitt was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility with bail for his release set at $500,000. Pruitt presently faces several counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a child.
In a prepared statement Danville police said this investigation remains open. Anyone with information can contact the Danville Police Department’s investigations unit at 925-314-3711.
