The history of college sports is littered with scandals, but few begin with an anonymous email and descend into accusations of such profound darkness. At California State University, Bakersfield, a disturbing case has eclipsed even the team’s struggling performance on the court.
An email arrived in August, directed to head coach Rod Barnes, containing a chilling warning. It alleged that a “temporary assistant coach,” Kevin Mays, was involved in human trafficking, operating as a pimp across multiple states. The message was stark: “FIX IT OR THE WHOLE STAFF WILL FALL,” a first and final warning regarding a woman allegedly victimized by Mays.
Barnes immediately forwarded the email to university officials, triggering an investigation that quickly spiraled into a criminal inquiry. The outcome has been shocking – Mays now sits in jail, awaiting trial and denied bail, facing a staggering eleven charges.
The accusations extend far beyond the initial claims of trafficking. Mays is accused of felony pimping, alongside charges related to illegal firearms and drug distribution. Authorities allege he possessed automatic weapons and high-capacity magazines, along with methamphetamine and marijuana intended for sale.
Investigators uncovered even more disturbing evidence. They claim Mays possessed over 600 images of child sexual abuse material and actively distributed obscene content involving a minor. These allegations, if proven, carry potentially life-altering consequences.
Despite the weight of the evidence, Mays has pleaded not guilty to every charge. The case has sent ripples through the sports world, a stark and unsettling contrast to the usual on-field controversies.
Adding to the turmoil, the Roadrunners basketball team is currently enduring a brutal 13-game losing streak. The scandal has effectively overshadowed any discussion of their on-court struggles, a grim reality for the program.
The university now faces a barrage of difficult questions, not about their win-loss record, but about the vetting process that allowed someone facing such serious allegations to be associated with their athletic program. The fallout promises to be significant and long-lasting.
