Police: Elyria Catholic coach arrested for intoxication and trying to get into wrong house

ELYRIA, OH - The Elyria Catholic High School Boys Basketball coach was arrested on Saint Patrick’s Day by Elyria police.

According to officers who wrote the report, 37-year-old Phil Kuchta was charged with criminal damaging and disorderly conduct.

Police said an elderly woman called 911 at 3:20 a.m. Saturday saying a man was trying to get into her house.

Police arrived and reported that Kuchta appeared highly intoxicated, was kicking the front door and became aggressive with police.

Police said Kuchta believed he was at his or his mom's house, police say he gave several stories but he was at the wrong house.

Kuchta’s house is several blocks away.

Kuchta was hired as Elyria Catholic’s head boys basketball coach two years ago.

Elyria Catholic President Andrew Krakowiak told NewsChannel5's Paul Kiska by phone Thursday the incident was "so very unfortunate for Elyria Catholic High School. He (Kuchta) is very remorseful. Anything that impacts the integrity, morale and mission of our high school we hold very closely," said Krawowiak. 

Krawowiak said Kuchta is on paid leave and will meet with school officials Tuesday.

 Repeated phone calls by NewsChannel 5 to Kuchta were not answered.