A former high school basketball coach in Rhode Island, Aaron Thomas, is facing serious allegations as his trial began on Tuesday. He has been accused of molesting teenage boys during body fat measurements conducted when the students were unclothed.
The 57-year-old Thomas, who previously coached at North Kingstown High School, is charged with second-degree child molestation and second-degree sexual assault. Prosecutors say the alleged offenses occurred nearly two decades apart but share striking similarities.
Central to the case are claims that Thomas conducted inappropriate “fat tests” on his students. Police Detective Christopher Mulligan stated in an affidavit that over 30 former students reported being inappropriately touched during these tests, usually held in a small closet near the gym.
The process reportedly began with Thomas asking students whether they felt “shy” before instructing them to undress if they did not. Former students revealed that he would then use a measuring tool on their thighs.
The charges specifically involve two students: one known as Ben, who claimed the inappropriate conduct began when he was 13 years old in 2001 and continued until he graduated. He alleged that Thomas touched him inappropriately during this time. Another complainant, Charles, claimed similar incidents occurred between 2017 and 2020, even after the school acquired a machine for measuring body fat.
Charles described forced situations where he was made to sit in a way that exposed himself while Thomas allegedly touched him inappropriately. It was reported that Thomas did not provide students with proper information about why they were required to disrobe, leaving many feeling pressured to participate for fear of missing out on chances to play basketball.
Thomas has denied the allegations, asserting that there was no sexual intent in his actions and claiming that students were not actually undressed during the tests. A judge has allowed the case to proceed to trial despite a motion from his defense to dismiss the charges. Thomas has pleaded not guilty, and as the trial unfolds, more details are expected to emerge.
