Former Cal State Bakersfield Assistant Coach Charged in Alleged Pimping Scandal

Kevin Mays accused of trafficking a woman and possessing child pornography

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A former assistant basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield, Kevin Mays, has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including pimping, possession of automatic firearms, possession of drugs with intent to sell, and child pornography. The investigation began after the university received an anonymous tip alleging Mays was trafficking a woman, leading to his termination and the departures of the head coach and athletic director.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of human trafficking and the need for universities to have robust processes in place to investigate and respond to allegations of misconduct by staff. It also raises questions about oversight and accountability within college athletic programs.

The details

According to the investigation, Mays was allegedly working as a pimp across four states, covering the costs of hotels, rental cars and flights for a woman he claimed was his 'girlfriend.' Police found multiple firearms and a large stash of drugs in Mays' car, as well as around 600 photos of children as young as 4 on his phone. The woman had also been involved in a DUI charge in a car that only Mays and other CSUB staff members were allowed to operate.

  • In August, CSUB received an anonymous email alleging Mays was 'trafficking a girl since May'.
  • In September, police conducted a sting operation and arrested Mays the following day.
  • Mays pleaded not guilty to all 11 charges and is currently being held without bond.

The players

Kevin Mays

A former assistant basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield who was arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including pimping, possession of automatic firearms, possession of drugs with intent to sell, and child pornography.

Rod Barnes

The former head basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield who received the anonymous email about Mays and subsequently launched an investigation that led to Mays' termination.

Kyle Conder

The former athletic director at Cal State Bakersfield who was terminated shortly after Mays' arrest, though he claims he was fired in August before the scandal broke.

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What’s next

Mays is currently being held without bond as investigators continue to conduct follow-up interviews. The university has also announced a 'broader look' at its athletic program in the wake of the scandal.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for universities to have robust processes in place to thoroughly investigate any allegations of misconduct by staff, and to take swift and appropriate action to protect students and the broader community.