High School Basketball Coach Arrested for Allegedly Choking Referee

A Connecticut high school basketball coach has been arrested and subsequently resigned from his positions after allegedly tripping and choking a referee during a youth league game on Oct. 24.

Thomas Sparks, 37, was coaching for the Connecticut Elite youth basketball league in Shelton when he reportedly became enraged over a foul call. According to a police report cited by the CT Post, Sparks first engaged in a verbal altercation with the referee before allegedly tripping and shoving the official to the ground.

While the referee was on the ground, Sparks allegedly wrapped his arm around the referee's neck. Witnesses, including some players, intervened to separate Sparks from the referee. Sparks was removed from the venue.

The referee then proceeded to the police station to file a report. Investigators spoke with Sparks, who reportedly stated he acted physically because he was unsure how the referee would react after their heated exchange. The CT Post reported that witness accounts corroborated the referee's version of events.

Sparks was arrested on the same day as the incident and charged with assault, strangulation, and risk of injury to a child. Days later, on Thursday, he resigned from his role as the girls basketball coach at Staples High School in Westport, Connecticut.

Staples High School Athletic Director confirmed Sparks' resignation to the CT Post, stating it was for "personal and family considerations." Officials from Connecticut Elite also confirmed that Sparks is no longer associated with their organization and declined to comment further.

Sparks was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court again on November 12. The CT Post reported that attempts to reach the Shelton Police Department, Staples High School athletics department, and Connecticut Elite for comment were made.