Bryant basketball coach charged in hit-and-run crash pleads not guilty

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Bryant University head basketball coach Jared Grasso pleaded not guilty Tuesday on a charge related to an alleged hit-and-run crash.

Grasso was arraigned in Kent County Court after his appearance was pushed back a week. He was released on $1,000 personal recognizance.

Grasso is accused of sideswiping a car on West Acres Interchange at Route 146 on the morning of Oct. 1.

Bryant University head basketball coach Jared Grasso is arraigned on a charge related to an alleged hit-and-run crash, Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023. (WLNE)

The North Smithfield Police Department released body-worn camera footage of an officer speaking with Grasso at this home the following day.

In the video, Grasso denied hitting any car and claimed his white SUV was struck while he was inside a local restaurant.

“That’s weird, because we had a hit-and-run on 146, and they got your plates specifically,” the officer said.

Police release bodycam footage of Bryant University head basketball coach Jared Grasso, standing next to a white SUV believed to have been involved in a hit-and-run crash. (North Smithfield police)

Grasso was charged with failure to stop for an accident resulting in damage to a vehicle.

He was placed on a leave of absence from coaching duties before the crash, on Sept. 27.

Bryant launched an external investigation, and it’s unclear whether it involves the misdemeanor charge he faces.

Grasso will appear back in court on Nov. 21.