Kevin Mays, a former assistant basketball coach at Cal State University Bakersfield, has been sentenced to four years in prison and must register as a sex offender for life after admitting to charges including pimping, firearm offenses, and possession of child pornography.
Mays pleaded no contest to felony charges of possession of child or youth pornography, pimping, and possession of a controlled substance while armed. Prosecutors dismissed nearly a dozen other charges as part of a plea deal.
Investigators said Mays directed a 22-year-old prostitute who worked in hotel rooms across California, Oregon, and Las Vegas. He allegedly arranged clients, booked accommodations, and used his university account to rent a luxury car for the woman.
The investigation into Mays began in August 2025 following an anonymous email to Cal State University Bakersfield accusing the coach of pimping. The email, which warned that the entire coaching staff could face repercussions if the situation was not addressed, prompted an investigation that led to Mays' termination and arrest.
University police located the victim through a sex advertisement and conducted a sting operation. The woman confirmed that Mays acted as her "boyfriend" and often paid for her travel and hotel expenses.
Following Mays' arrest, search warrants executed on his vehicle and residence uncovered multiple firearms, a significant quantity of drugs, and approximately 600 images of child pornography on his phone, with some victims appearing as young as four years old.
Mays' defense attorney stated that his client is "truly remorseful" and relieved the legal proceedings are concluded. The attorney also expressed hope that the basketball program could recover from the stress caused by Mays' conduct.