Staples High School girls basketball coach Thomas Sparks was arrested on October 30, 2026, after police alleged he choked a referee during a youth basketball game in Shelton, Connecticut, on October 24.
According to the Shelton Police Department, the incident occurred during a youth game when Sparks reportedly became upset over a foul call and physically assaulted the official. Sparks was taken into custody and faces charges related to the altercation.
The school district has not yet commented on Sparks' employment status following the arrest.
