UPDATE: Unsettling allegations revealed in martial arts child sex abuse case

As employees at Mitchell’s Martial Arts in Salisbury, Md. 26-year-old Zachariah Bennett and 21-year-old Leah Wright were tasked with the responsibility of watching over minors, responsibilities they allegedly abused when they engaged in sexual acts with them.

Court documents show that after a period of time where Bennett was allegedly sending sexual messages to victim number one, a 15-year-old girl at the time, that Bennett allegedly felt he could “trust” her. 

After gaining that “trust” Bennett had the victim perform oral sex on him three separate times, one of the times he reportedly tried having sex with her. 

Wright was also allegedly involved with victim one, according to court documents she alternated performing oral sex on Bennett with victim one on one occasion and served as a lookout for Bennett on a separate one.

For victim two, who was 14 years old when the abuse started the pattern was similar.

The victim alleging that Bennett began sending her sexually explicit texts, then when she was 15 Bennett had her perform oral sex on him. 

All of the acts allegedly happening inside of the Mitchell’s Martial Arts building in places like the skate room, the DJ Booth and the restroom. 

Lastly, victim three, who was a 13-year-old female at the time of the abuse alleged Bennett sent her sexually explicit texts, sent her explicit photographs and even touched her buttocks in a sexual manner. 

Court documents show Bennett confirmed some of the allegations, but not all of them in a police interview.

In total Bennett is facing 27 child sex abuse charges, including first degree rape.

Wright, is facing 21 child sex abuse charges, including sexual abuse of a minor.

Both Bennett and Wright are being held at the Wicomico County Detention Center without bond.

Bennett is allegedly facing more charges in Worcester County in relation to victim number three.