Aaron Thomas ‘adamantly denies criminal conduct whatsoever’ in naked fat test case, says attorney

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — A former North Kingstown boys basketball coach accused of administering “naked fat tests” on student-athletes pleaded not guilty in court Friday.

This comes after a months-long investigation into allegations against Aaron Thomas, by North Kingstown police and the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office.

Two former students have come forward alleging that Thomas conducted those fat tests.

“They were naked when examined, alone with a school department coach, on school department property,” said attorney Timothy Conlon, representing former students of Thomas. Last month, the coach was charged with child molestation and sexual assault.

According to court documents, Thomas allegedly engaged in sexual contact with a person 14 years of age or under, between Sept. 1, 2000, and Feb. 22, 2002.

Between Sept. 1, 2019, and Feb. 22, 2020, Thomas is accused of sexual contact with a student “by force or coercion or while engaging in the medical treatment of the victim for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification or stimulation,” court documents read.

Most recently, one of the attorney’s for the victims said he is certain there are more victims who have not spoken to police.

A former Superior Court judge released a 146 page report prior to the charges, which showed the fat tests were considered an “open secret.”

Both the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent of schools in North Kingstown have since stepped down.

Outside of court, Thomas’ attorney said on his behalf, “He’s dedicated his professional life to the students of North Kingstown. He adamantly denies any criminal conduct whatsoever.”

He was released on $10,000 personal recognizance, and is not allowed to coach, teach, or contact any of the alleged victims.

He will be back in court on October 14th.