Federal charges filed against ex-Barrington Christian Academy coach

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A former Barrington Christian Academy coach previously arrested on state charges is now facing federal charges after investigators allege he used fake identities and impersonated an FBI agent to manipulate a 14-year-old student into sending partially nude photographs.

Sean Cassidy, 53, of Pawtucket, appeared Tuesday before U.S. District Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan in federal court in Providence. He is charged by criminal complaint with coercion and enticement of a minor and false impersonation of a federal employee.

According to federal court documents, the investigation began on May 29, 2026, after the parent of a 14-year-old Barrington Christian Academy student reported concerns about an inappropriate relationship between Cassidy, who worked as a physical education teacher and athletics coach.

The following day, the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force launched an investigation that was later joined by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

Investigators allege fake FBI program used to exploit student

According to an affidavit supporting the criminal complaint, investigators interviewed the alleged victim and multiple witnesses. Authorities also executed search warrants at Cassidy’s residence, vehicle, workspace, electronic devices, and online accounts.

Federal investigators allege Cassidy began building a relationship of trust with the student no later than December 2025 through his roles as her teacher and coach. They claim he communicated extensively with her using personal email accounts and falsely represented himself as an agent involved in a covert FBI program.

According to investigators, Cassidy used multiple online platforms, including email, messaging services, and encrypted accounts, while communicating under several fictitious identities. Authorities allege he convinced the student that taking partially nude photographs of herself was part of the supposed FBI “training program.”

Federal investigation continues

Cassidy was previously arrested on June 1 and again on July 17, 2026, on related Rhode Island state charges.

Federal authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as investigators continue reviewing digital evidence and evaluating reports involving Cassidy’s alleged contact with additional minors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise Barton is prosecuting the case.

The investigation is being led by Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from local law enforcement agencies.