Pasadena, TX – Parents of young athletes know the cost of travel sports all too well. Between uniforms, field fees, tournament weekends, and team hotels, the expenses add up quickly.
But imagine paying all these costs only to find out the team you’ve signed your child up for never existed. That’s exactly what’s happening to some families in Pasadena, and police are now investigating coach Thaddeus Lewis for allegedly scamming them.
The Allegations Against Thaddeus Lewis
Thaddeus Lewis, who was supposed to be coaching an 18U softball team, allegedly accepted payments from families to cover uniforms, practices, and tournament entry fees—but the team never truly formed.
Parents say that after paying, they were left in the dark when Lewis stopped showing up to practices, and the scheduled tournaments were never booked. To make matters worse, the team gear was never ordered, and the practice fields were never paid for.
The situation took a darker turn when Lewis disconnected his phone and deleted the team’s GroupMe chat, completely cutting off all communication with the families. Parents who trusted him with their money and their daughters’ softball seasons were left in the lurch.
Investigators Believe This Could Be a Pattern
Pasadena police believe this may not be the first time Thaddeus Lewis has taken advantage of unsuspecting families. Investigators suggest that he may have targeted new families each year, running the same scam under the guise of organizing youth softball teams.
Detective Satterwhite is asking anyone who has had a similar experience with Lewis or a team he ran to come forward.
If you or someone you know has been affected, you are encouraged to reach out:
Detective Satterwhite
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 713-475-7892
Case #: 25-009058
Protect Yourself and Speak Up
For many families, travel softball isn’t just a game; it’s a sacrifice. Parents work overtime, juggle busy schedules, and stretch their budgets to give their kids the opportunity to pursue their dreams. When that trust is broken, it can feel like a betrayal.
If you’ve ever paid for select ball or are currently involved in one, this story is a reminder to protect yourself and speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Don’t let one bad experience ruin the sport that means so much to you and your child.