William Propper. Photo: Sugar Land Police Department/Facebook
A Texas karate instructor has been arrested and charged with the sexual assault of a teenage boy who attended a summer camp at a local karate school in Sugar Land. The suspect, 30-year-old William Propper, was taken into custody after a disturbing report surfaced detailing an alleged assault that took place in 2022 or 2023.
The case came to light on January 31, when the victim’s mother contacted Sugar Land police to report that her son had been assaulted by Propper in a staff bathroom at the karate school. According to an arrest affidavit, the boy—who was 13 or 14 years old at the time—revealed the details to his mother before speaking with a forensic interviewer.
During the interview, the boy described how Propper, his karate instructor since 2018, allegedly coerced him into engaging in sexual activity. The affidavit states that Propper suggested they should “try out sex” and claimed the boy was “mature enough now to have sex.” After the incident, Propper allegedly warned the victim to keep it a secret.
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Following the allegations, an attorney representing the karate school confirmed that Propper has been placed on leave while the investigation continues. “Classes will resume as normal. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time,” the attorney said in a statement.
Propper was arrested on February 1 and later released on a $75,000 bond. The case has not yet been officially submitted to the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, but Propper is scheduled to appear in court on March 17.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The case has sparked outrage and concern among parents, reinforcing the need for vigilance when it comes to children’s safety in extracurricular activities.
