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GASTONIA, NC – A former coach accused of sex crimes returned to the witness stand Tuesday. Scott Goins was fiery and sometimes combative during cross-examination. He told prosecutors he thinks his accusers are making up their stories.
“So once again your memory is selected to your benefit?” District Attorney Locke Bell asked. “Oh most definitely, like yours is,” Goins replied.
The former East Gaston High Wrestling Coach frequently challenged and sometimes mocked the DA. “That you even remembered who choked out whom and when?” Bell asked. “Yes, I do,” Goins replied in Bell’s tone of voice.
Three accusers claim Goins touched them inappropriately and forced them to perform sex acts. Most of the alleged incidents happened in the late 1990s on trips or inside the school.
Tuesday’s testimony focused on hazing some wrestlers say went too far. “Taking a young middle schooler, 12, 13 years old and holding like that until they go unconscious. That’s a game to you?” Bell asked. “No, sir,” replied Goins.
The coach claims wrestlers made up their stories. “They’re all wrong?” Bell asked. “And you’re the only one right?” Goins replied, “No sir, that’s not what I’m saying.”
Goins told prosecutors he believes some wrestlers were upset about being suspended or dismissed from the team. He says he punished them because of drug or alcohol violations.
