A man once known for his high-energy presence at Phoenix Suns games is now heading to prison after pleading guilty to crimes involving the sexual exploitation of minors.
Patrick Battillo, widely recognized by fans as “Mr. ORNG” for his signature head-to-toe orange outfits and face paint, was sentenced Friday to three and a half years in prison. In addition to the prison term, a judge ordered lifetime supervised probation following his release.
Battillo, who previously served as head coach of the boys basketball team at Peoria High School, was arrested two years ago after authorities began investigating allegations that he had been communicating inappropriately with students. According to the Peoria Police Department, the case emerged after school officials reported concerns that Battillo had offered money to minors in exchange for explicit photos and videos.
Prosecutors said Battillo ultimately pleaded guilty last month to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of attempted sexual exploitation. The charges stemmed from interactions with juvenile students during his time working and volunteering on campus.
The investigation also led to the arrest of a fellow school employee, Holly Holgate, who was accused of interfering with the case. Authorities allege she warned Battillo about the investigation, allowing him to leave campus before he could be questioned. She faces charges related to hindering prosecution and failing to report suspected abuse.
Before his arrest, Battillo had become a recognizable figure among Suns fans, frequently appearing in the stands and even in a 2021 NBA promotional campaign. His flamboyant “Mr. ORNG” persona made him a fixture at games and a familiar face on television broadcasts.
School district officials said Battillo had passed required background checks, including fingerprint clearance, prior to his hiring in 2019. Holgate, who had worked at the school for more than two decades, also held valid credentials at the time of the incident.
The case has raised renewed concerns about safeguarding students and ensuring that school staff and volunteers are properly monitored, even after initial screening procedures are completed.
