A 32-year-old martial arts instructor named Stephen Zarruk faces the criminal accusation of indecency with a child, following reports that he allegedly sexually assaulted a juvenile student during private training sessions. News sources indicate that Zarruk is affiliated with The Woodlands Karate & MMA and previously held a position as a substitute teacher within the Conroe Independent School District. Law enforcement officials have acted upon these serious charges, placing Zarruk behind bars with a significant bond amount attached to his release.
A report by FOX 26 Houston revealed that Zarruk's arrest materialized after an arrest warrant was issued, leading to his detention by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office. The bond was initially set at $100,000, a financial hurdle meant to ensure proper legal proceedings can contentedly unfold without the risk of flight. Zarruk has since posted this bond, according to a KHOU 11 report.
In response to the situation, Conroe ISD released a statement, which read, "Stephen Zarruk worked as a part-time substitute in Conroe ISD beginning in the fall of 2021. As with all potential employees, a background check was done and came back clear. Upon learning of this upsetting matter, steps were taken to begin the termination process. At this time, we have no indication anything inappropriate occurred on any Conroe ISD campus," as noted by KHOU. Both institutions, his martial arts employer and the school district where he taught, have moved to sever ties in light of these allegations.
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office strongly encourages anyone that may possess information relevant to the case or concerns about Zarruk's interactions with other children to come forward and contact them at (936) 760-5800, referencing case number 25A008737.
