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California Today
By the People, for the People
Former CSU Bakersfield Basketball Coach Charged in Human Trafficking Scandal
Allegations claim ex-assistant Kevin Mays operated as a pimp across multiple states
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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A former temporary assistant coach for the California State University-Bakersfield men's basketball team, Kevin Mays, has been charged with a laundry list of felony sex offense charges, including sending and selling obscene matter depicting minors. An anonymous tip led to an investigation that uncovered Mays' alleged involvement in human trafficking across California, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon.
Why it matters
The scandal has rocked the CSU Bakersfield athletic department, leading to the departures of the athletic director and head basketball coach. These types of crimes often go undetected, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement, universities, and the public to identify and stop human trafficking networks.
The details
According to police records, the investigation began after the head coach, Rod Barnes, received an anonymous email on August 29 alleging that Mays was trafficking a woman. Barnes forwarded the email to the university's human resources department, which then alerted the university police. The investigation led to Mays' arrest on September 12, and he is now facing numerous felony charges related to sex offenses and human trafficking.
- On August 29, head coach Rod Barnes received an anonymous email alleging Mays was trafficking a woman.
- On September 12, Mays was incarcerated after being charged with the crimes.
- On September 8, the school announced the departure of athletic director Kyle Conder.
- On September 24, head coach Rod Barnes stepped down from his role.
The players
Kevin Mays
A former temporary assistant coach for the California State University-Bakersfield men's basketball team who is alleged to have operated as a pimp across multiple states.
Rod Barnes
The former head coach of the California State University-Bakersfield men's basketball team who received the anonymous tip and forwarded it to the university's human resources department.
Kyle Conder
The former athletic director of California State University-Bakersfield who departed the school on September 8 in the aftermath of the scandal.
What they’re saying
“These types of crimes often hide in plain sight. We will continue to work with our partners to identify traffickers, support survivors, and hold offenders accountable.”
— Sally Selby, Public Affairs and Communications Manager, Bakersfield Police Department (USA TODAY Sports)
What’s next
The Bakersfield Police Department and university officials are continuing their investigation into the full scope of Mays' alleged criminal activities. The university is also reviewing its policies and procedures to ensure proper oversight and reporting of any future misconduct.
The takeaway
This disturbing case highlights the critical need for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement, universities, and the public to identify and stop human trafficking networks that can hide in plain sight. It serves as a sobering reminder that these crimes can infiltrate even the most trusted institutions and underscores the importance of comprehensive training, reporting protocols, and victim support services to combat this pervasive issue.
