WEST DES MOINES, Iowa —

Gym owners in Iowa and Louisiana are reacting with shock and concern following the arrest of former gymnastics coach Sean Gardner on charges of sexual exploitation of students.

The owner of Chow's Gym in West Des Moines said he was unaware of any allegations of sexual abuse involving Gardner until the FBI arrested him last week. Gardner, 38, faces charges of sexual exploitation of gymnastic students. Chow's attorney provided a timeline indicating that Chow was unaware of Gardner's actions.

Another gym owner where Gardner worked is also speaking out.

Michelle Waguespack, co-owner of Athletes in Motion in Louisiana, expressed her distress upon learning that Gardner, who began coaching at her gym, is now charged with serious crimes in Iowa. "Whenever you've given

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