High school coach arrested for choking referee during youth basketball game

• Thomas Sparks, a Staples High School girls basketball coach, was arrested on Oct. 24, 2026.
• The arrest occurred after Sparks allegedly choked a referee during a game in Shelton.
• Sparks has since resigned from his coaching position.
• The incident began over a disputed call during the game.
• No further incidents or injuries were reported.