Supporters to attend court date for Salinas coach accused of rape

Attorney, Tracy Henderson, is coming to the defense of North Salinas High School track and field hockey coach, John Fickas.

Fickas, is currently out on a $400,000 bail. He was arrested for rape and sodomy, earlier this month.

Henderson, said she was with Fickas at the time he was arrested. Henderson said she has worked with Fickas since 2018, representing him in a case involving the abandonment and abuse of rabbits. Henderson said showing rabbits is a much-loved hobby of Fickas’.

Henderson said she was shocked when Fickas was arrested and that no warning was given. “Why would you have him publicly arrested in front of the judge who is ruling in his favor? It caused me to pause. It wasn’t a professional situation. He tried to give me his wallet and the detective would not let him do that. Normally that is allowed. He wouldn’t answer my questions as to what was going on,” said Henderson.

On Thursday, an FBI spokesperson told KION that John Fickas is involved in an investigation for possible financial improprieties. Henderson said the FBI could not confirm or deny that Fickas is the target of such investigation.

Henderson said Fickas is a loving father-of-two, husband for over 15 years, volunteer coach for over 17 years, former school board member and small businessman. She said Fickas has received thousands of messages of support from community members, former student athletes, and friends.

Fickas is set to appear in court on Monday. Henderson said all in support of John Fickas are encouraged to come out.