A Barrington Christian Academy teacher and athletics coach was arrested and appeared in federal court in Rhode Island on Aug. 4 on federal charges following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Sean Cassidy, 53, of Pawtucket, appeared before U.S. District Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan. He is charged by criminal complaint with coercion and enticement of a minor and false impersonation of a federal employee.
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, the investigation began on May 29 after the parent of a 14-year-old student at Barrington Christian Academy reported concerns about an inappropriate relationship between Cassidy—who served as both physical education teacher and athletics coach—and his daughter. The next day, the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force initiated its investigation, later joined by Homeland Security Investigations.
The affidavit describes that investigators interviewed the minor and other witnesses; executed search warrants on Cassidy’s residence, vehicle, workspace, electronic devices, and online accounts; and conducted forensic reviews of communications and digital evidence. The affidavit alleges that starting no later than December 2025, Cassidy developed a relationship of trust with the minor through his school roles, engaged in extended private communications using personal email accounts, and falsely claimed to be an agent involved in a covert Federal Bureau of Investigation program.
Further allegations state that Cassidy used multiple online platforms—including email, messaging services, and encrypted accounts—to communicate under fictitious identities with the minor. He allegedly directed her to engage in acts such as taking partially nude photographs as part of what he described as FBI “training.”
Cassidy was previously arrested on June 1 and July 17 on related state charges. The federal investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence regarding potential contacts with additional minors. Assistant United States Attorney Denise Barton is prosecuting the case.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations along with the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and local law enforcement partners. A criminal complaint is merely an accusation; Cassidy is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island enforces federal laws across the state through prosecutions designed to safeguard public safety while working alongside agencies such as Homeland Security Investigations and local law enforcement partners, according to the official website.