HERNDON, Va. (WUSA9) -- Police arrested a popular Herndon Tae Kwon Do instructor on Wednesday on charges he inappropriately touched a juvenile student under his instruction last month.
The instructor, Han I. Tak was released from custody, and returned to his family's martial arts studio later in the evening, where many parents rallied around him.
An adult student of "Master Han," as Tak was known, who also has children who study under him at Fox Mill Tae Kwon Do, read reporters a statement from Tak and his father, also named Han Tak.
"On behalf of Fox Mill Tae Kwon Do, Han Tak and Master Tak, they vehemently deny all allegations made that appeared in the news today," parent Nancy Jennings said, half-reading from prepared notes.
"This is a family-run, very established business. Very well known. They've been here 20 years," Jennings continued. "Nothing like this has ever happened before. No allegation of any kind has ever been made before."
Tak senior founded Fox Mill Tae Kwon Do decades ago, and afternoon classes were packed on Wednesday, even as news crews lingered outside. Neither Tak would speak on camera, nor would many parents, but those who did expressed unwavering support for the instructors they say taught their children not just martial arts, but discipline and respect.
"I'm really surprised," said one father after dropping off his pre-teen son for class. "I've observed both instructors interact with all ages; from the littlest to 60 year olds and I've not seen one hint of anything like that."
Police said they couldn't rule out the possibility of other victims, and urged anyone with a possible criminal complaint against Tak to come forward.
Jennings called that request ludicrous, and confidently predicted police would get no responses, and the charges against Tak would be dropped. She said the family and supportive parents would fight the charges "to the bitter end."
Anyone with information is asked to please call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131 or contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637.
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