The head football coach at Minnesota State University, Mankato, was arrested and jailed Tuesday afternoon on allegations that he had possessed and produced child pornography.
Todd Hoffner, 46, of Eagle Lake, was arrested at his home. According to the university, Hoffner has been on leave from his coaching position since Friday and a school investigation is pending.
He remained jailed Tuesday night on suspicion of "use of minors in a sexual performance" and possession of child pornography while authorities considered formal charges, according to the Blue Earth County Sheriff's Office.
Asked whether the first allegation meant that Hoffner was suspected of producing child pornography, Capt. Rich Murry of the Sheriff's Office responded, "That would be the allegation."
"The whole situation comes as a shock and is still a shock," said assistant coach Aaron Keen, who has taken over the Division II team in Hoffner's absence.
The Sheriff's Office said it received information Monday about Hoffner allegedly possessing pornography. His home was searched on Tuesday, and the coach was arrested.
In a statement released Tuesday night, university spokesman Dan Benson said, "The University's top priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of its students, program participants, and the community. The University is not aware of any allegations affecting university students or program participants."
Citing state data practices law, Benson said he could not comment further about the university's investigation or the allegations against Hoffner.
