Staples wrestling coach removed after being charged with narcotics possession

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The coach of the Staples High School wrestling team was charged with narcotics possession early Saturday, and has been removed from his coaching post.

David Bernstein, 28, of Henderson Road in Fairfield, was charged after he was stopped by police about 1:30 a.m. Saturday when Bernstein’s car was seen crossing the double-yellow traffic line on Post Road East. After the stop, according to police, it was learned that a failure to appear warrant had been issued against Bernstein at state Superior Court in Bridgeport.

During the traffic stop, officers discovered Bernstein “was found to be in possession of a small amount of cocaine,” according to the report.

He was charged with possession of narcotics and failure to appear.

Bernstein also has been relieved of his coaching post, according to Marty Lisevick, the Staples athletics director. Lisevick added that a replacement is being sought for the coaching job.

Bernstein had been charged with breach of peace following a fight outside a bar in downtown Fairfield earlier this year, but the charge was later dropped.

Bond for Bernstein was set at $3,500, and he is scheduled to appear Dec. 15 on the Westport charge at state Superior Court in Norwalk.