Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
Kern County prosecutors have officially filed a series of criminal charges against Kevin Sanford Mays Jr., a prominent assistant basketball coach at California State University, Bakersfield, located at 9001 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93311. The 32-year-old faces allegations that include sex trafficking of a minor, pimping, drug possession while armed, and multiple weapons violations, according to The Sacramento Bee.
Mays was arrested last Friday and booked into the Kern County Jail following an investigation that began on September 3. Bakersfield Police Department officers, in collaboration with the Sacramento Police Department, uncovered evidence implicating Mays in the case. Authorities say the charges stem from allegations that Mays procured a minor for prostitution. Prosecutors emphasized that aggravating factors in the case involve a vulnerable victim and a high level of planning.
Further charges include felony counts of pandering a minor, possessing methamphetamine for sale, and multiple weapons violations, such as possession of an assault rifle, a short-barreled shotgun, and a loaded firearm alongside drugs. Additionally, Mays is facing five misdemeanors, including possessing a gun with an altered serial number and carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle.
Mays, a well-known figure in the CSU Bakersfield basketball community, was entering his sixth year as an assistant coach for the men’s basketball team, according to a 2024 update on the university’s website. A graduate of CSU Bakersfield in 2016, Mays earned a bachelor’s degree and had been involved in player development for the Roadrunners basketball program.
The arraignment hearing for Mays took place Monday afternoon, as confirmed by the Kern County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors continue to build their case, citing the serious nature of the charges and the evidence gathered.
Authorities have not released additional details about the minor involved, but stated that the investigation underscores the severity of crimes involving exploitation and sophisticated planning.
CSU Bakersfield has yet to provide a public statement on the charges against Mays or his current employment status. The case has drawn significant attention, given Mays’ prominent position within the university's athletics program.
When a university coach is accused of sexual abuse, victims often face overwhelming questions about their rights and next steps. Beyond the criminal justice process, survivors may have the option to pursue civil action against both the individual and the institution involved. In this interview, California-based sexual abuse attorney Jason Amala discusses the legal pathways available to victims, the challenges they may encounter, and how accountability can extend beyond the perpetrator to organizations that fail to protect those in their care.
Editor Darla Medina: When cases like this involve a university coach, what legal avenues are available for victims who may want to take action?
Attorney Jason Amala: Victims in cases like this have both criminal and civil options. While the criminal case is handled by prosecutors, victims can also file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and potentially the institution if it’s proven they failed to protect the victim or ignored warning signs.
Medina: How does a victim establish accountability on the part of the university, especially when dealing with someone in a position of authority like a coach?
Amala: It depends on evidence. If the university knew or should have known about the risk posed by the individual—say, past allegations, complaints, or inappropriate behavior—and didn’t act, that could establish negligence. Schools are obligated to provide a safe environment, and failing to meet that standard can result in liability.
Medina: What challenges might victims face if they decide to pursue a civil case?
Amala: One challenge is the emotional toll. These cases are deeply personal and often require victims to recount their experiences in detail, which can be retraumatizing. Another issue is timing. California has statutes of limitations for bringing civil claims, though recent changes have expanded the window for some survivors.
Medina: How important is it for victims to come forward, even with these challenges?
Amala: It’s entirely up to the individual. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and someone’s healing process is their own. That said, coming forward can sometimes help others who may have been harmed and lead to broader accountability. The key is ensuring survivors feel supported, regardless of their decision.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by sexual abuse involving a university coach or institution, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our experienced team is committed to helping survivors understand their rights and explore legal options. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward holding the responsible parties accountable.
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