Aaron Thomas trial: Latest updates on the R.I. basketball coach accused of conducting naked ‘fat tests' on teen athletes
April 7, 2025: As trial begins, former R.I. high school coach used 'fat tests' to touch naked students, prosecutors say
SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. —
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That's the question
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And it's the first question Assistant Attorney General Timothy G. Healy asked aloud in Washington County Superior Court on Monday, as he began his opening argument before a jury now charged with determining whether Thomas, 57, is guilty of second-degree child molestation and second-degree assault.
Thomas told students some of the tests would help them jump higher and run faster, Healy said. But, Healy told jurors, in the coming days experts will testify the tests performed were not medically valid.
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Thomas, who did not answer questions from reporters as he entered court on Monday, is expected to testify during the trial, according to his attorney, John E. MacDonald. Jurors will also hear testimony from at least nine former students, some of whom attended North Kingstown High School in the 1990s, Healy said.
Podcast: What we know about the 'fat tests' at North Kingstown High School
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