A girls basketball coach at a Massachusetts high school is confronting severe legal allegations, as Scott Marino, 54, of Stoneham, was arrested on Wednesday. He faces two counts of rape, one count of indecent assault and battery, and one count of furnishing alcohol to a person under the age of 21.
Details of the Allegations
According to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Marino is accused of providing alcohol to an 18-year-old student and sexually assaulting that individual. The teenager was known to Marino, as detailed in a press release issued on Wednesday. The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting concerns over student safety and trust in educational staff.
Legal Proceedings and School Response
Marino is scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday in Woburn District Court. In response to the charges, Superintendent Timothy Sippel confirmed that Marino teaches at Linden STEAM Academy, which serves kindergarten through eighth grade, and serves as the head coach of the girls basketball team at Malden High School, located in Boston's northern suburbs. Marino has been placed on leave pending the outcome of the trial.
Superintendent Sippel emphasized the district's cooperation with law enforcement agencies, stating in a written statement: 'The district is fully cooperating with relevant law enforcement agencies in their investigation, which is ongoing. I understand how upsetting and distressing this is to our community, given the serious nature of these allegations. We thank you for your continued commitment to our students and our district community. The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority.'
Community Reaction and Background
A reporter from NewCenter 5 attempted to contact Marino at his home, reportedly shared with his wife, but was met with resistance as the woman who answered the door turned off the outside lights and retreated inside. As of now, no attorney for Marino has been publicly identified, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the case.
Marino has been involved in coaching in Malden for approximately a decade, according to a 2017 profile in the school paper. This long-standing role makes the allegations particularly alarming for parents and students alike, raising questions about oversight and accountability in school sports programs.
The ongoing investigation continues to unfold, with authorities urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The case underscores broader issues of safeguarding minors in educational settings and the legal ramifications for those in positions of authority.
