Former Islesboro coach facing new charges

In contact with victim despite ban, barred from Islesboro
Sun, 06/08/2014 - 7:45pm

    LINCOLNVILLE — A former Islesboro school basketball coach faces three new charges after allegedly violating conditions of his release. The new charges also resulted in an unopposed motion for a continuation of his anticipated Aug. 11 trial date, where he was to answer to multiple counts of gross sexual assault.

    Travis Tatro, 30, currently of Camden, was originally arrested in Nov. 2013 on a number of sexual offenses, including 16 counts of gross sexual assault, as well as charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of sexually explicit material of a minor.

    A new warrant for his arrest was issued May 20, after Maine State Police said he violated conditions of his release on multiple occasions by allegedly being in contact with one of his victims. Tatro turned himself in to authorities at Two Bridges County Jail May 28.

    Detective Jason Andrews investigated the allegations, contacting the principal for Islesboro Central School to investigate reports that Tatro had been seen in "very close" proximity to one of his victims in late April.

    In light of the recent developments, Walter McKee, the attorney representing Tatro, filed a motion for a continuance with Waldo County Superior Court May 29, saying the new charges may have a significant impact on the trial and resolution of the original charges.

    The motion was not opposed by District Attorney Geoffery Rushlau.

    A motion to revoke bail was heard at Waldo County's Superior Court June 3, with bail set at $25,000 secured, which was paid in addition to the $20,000 bail Tatro posted Nov. 21, 2013. The new bail conditions also stipulate he can no longer reside on, or visit Islesboro, he is barred from having contact with any of his victims, including a ban from their places of employment, residence or place of education. 

    Tatro was released from custody the same day.

    The original crimes allegedly committed were against three minor victims during the two years Tatro worked as a coach for the Islesboro school system, a position he was dismissed from in Aug. 2013.

    Tatro is scheduled to appear in Superior Court July 31.


    Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com