Minnesota State Wire

Dorian Christopher Barrs, a 33-year-old former volleyball coach, was sentenced to 400 months in prison for producing child pornography. Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson announced the sentencing and emphasized the breach of trust involved.

“Barrs didn’t just break the law—he shattered the trust placed in him by parents, schools, and the girls he coached and was supposed protect,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “This was a deliberated and calculated abuse of power. And it is part of a broader crisis we are facing in Minnesota...If you hold a position of trust or authority and harm a child: we will find you, we will expose you, and you will see federal justice.”

Court documents revealed that Barrs exploited his role as a volleyball coach over nearly ten years to sexually abuse players as young as 14. He coached at Maple Grove High School and other programs while using social media to manipulate victims into sexual activities.

U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel sentenced Barrs to 33 years in prison followed by supervised release for life, describing the case as "every parent’s nightmare." She remarked on the irony given Barrs's understanding of sports' importance.

FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr., stated: “The 33-year prison sentence in this case serves as a stern warning to those who prey upon and sexually exploit children for their own gratification.” The FBI collaborated with local authorities throughout the investigation.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the bravery of victims who came forward starting in 2024, leading to Barrs's arrest and conviction through an investigation conducted by Carver County’s Sheriff’s Office and the FBI.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan B. Gilead prosecuted this case.