PROVIDENCE, R.I. — In a high-profile case that has captivated the community, a jury has acquitted former Rhode Island high school basketball coach Aaron Thomas of second-degree child molestation and sexual assault charges. Instead, the jury found Thomas guilty of a lesser charge, misdemeanor battery, in a verdict delivered on Monday.
The decision comes after Thomas, who served for decades at North Kingstown High School, was accused of conducting “naked fat tests” on hundreds of male student-athletes. The tests involved asking students if they were “shy or not shy” before requesting them to undress for body fat checks.
Trial Details and Defense Arguments
Throughout the nearly six-week trial, Thomas’ defense team argued that while the tests were inappropriate, they did not constitute a crime. Defense attorney John MacDonald emphasized that Thomas did not engage in the tests for sexual gratification, which is a critical component of the charges he faced.
“We’d like to thank the jury for their attention, their hard work, and for their verdict. We are very satisfied that the jury saw the case as we saw it, no sexual intent whatsoever,” MacDonald stated to reporters outside the courtroom.
Prosecution’s Standpoint
Prosecutors, however, painted a different picture, asserting that Thomas devised a program granting him unrestricted access to young, naked boys over many years. Attorney General Peter Neronha highlighted the impact on victims in a statement following the verdict.
“Above all else, this case is about the victims who suffered greatly behind closed doors,” Neronha said. “Pseudo-science is not an excuse for abuse, nor is winning more important than well-being.”
Neronha also mentioned the statute of limitations on second-degree assault in Rhode Island, which is currently three years. He has been an advocate for extending this period to ten years, which would have enabled the pursuit of additional charges against Thomas.
Implications and Sentencing
Under Rhode Island law, misdemeanor battery carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a potential fine of up to $1,000. Sentencing for Thomas is scheduled for June 26.
The charges against Thomas pertained to incidents involving two former students, one of whom was under 14 at the time of the alleged offenses in September 2000 and February 2002. Thomas’ defense questioned the reliability of these testimonies, citing one student’s mental health issues and suggesting a financial motive tied to a separate civil lawsuit.
Testimonies and Expert Opinions
During the trial, Thomas admitted to conducting the tests on over 600 students, with approximately 80% removing their underwear. The procedure involved pinching various body areas, including near the groin and buttocks, in secluded settings such as a small room or Thomas’ office.
Body fat composition experts testified that removing underwear was unnecessary, and pinching near the groin lacks scientific backing for determining body fat levels. More than a dozen students, alongside law enforcement officers and former school officials, provided testimony during the trial.
This case has sparked discussions on the responsibilities and boundaries of educators, highlighting the need for clear guidelines and oversight in school programs. As the community awaits Thomas’ sentencing, the broader implications for school policies and legal standards remain a focal point of concern.
