A former high school basketball coach from Rhode Island is currently on trial for accusations of molesting teenage boys during so-called “fat tests” conducted while they were naked. Aaron Thomas, 57, who was once a well-regarded coach at North Kingstown High School, is facing charges of second-degree child molestation and second-degree sexual assault. Prosecutors claim that the incidents, which occurred nearly two decades apart, shared similar characteristics.
The allegations revolve around Thomas’ practice of conducting “fat testing” on his students, with allegations stemming from more than 30 former students who claim they were touched inappropriately during these tests. According to North Kingstown Police Detective Christopher Mulligan, the tests would allegedly take place in a small closet near the gymnasium. Students were reportedly asked to remove all their clothes after indicating whether they were “shy or not shy,” followed by measurements being taken, particularly of their upper thighs.
The criminal charges against Thomas are based on accusations from two specific students. One, identified as Ben, recounted instances of being groped during the tests that began when he was 13 years old in 2001. The other student, known as Charles, alleged similar inappropriate conduct during his time at the school from 2017 to 2020, even after the school district purchased a machine for fat testing following a prior complaint.
Despite denying the allegations and claiming no sexual intent behind his actions, Thomas is facing trial after Judge Melanie Wilk Thunberg dismissed his motion to do so. Thomas has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is represented by attorney John MacDonald. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, you can seek support by texting “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.
Please reach out to a trained crisis counselor if you or someone you are aware of has experienced sexual assault. Contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org. Original article from People magazine.
