Former Santa Ynez coach sentenced to prison for multiple sex crimes against minors

Gregory Scott Ray, the 57-year-old former yearbook salesman and youth sports coach who was convicted in June of more than three dozen sex crimes in the Santa Ynez Valley, was sentenced on Aug. 19 to 22 years and four months in prison followed by 50 years to life in state prison, according to a statement from the Santa Barbara District Attorney's Office Wednesday.

Ray's crimes were committed against eight minors over an 11-year period. Ray met several of his victims through his sons, who attended local schools in the Santa Ynez Valley. Investigators found that Ray's community involvement as a yearbook salesman, field trip chaperone and coach for Little League baseball and high school volleyball programs allowed him to meet and exploit underage boys. Ray also used online dating apps for same-sex couples such as Grindr and Adam4Adam, where he met boys as young as 12, according to prosecutors.

The sentence of 22 years and four months reflects the crimes committed against six of the victims, while the two additional sentences of 25 years to life are for his crimes against two other victims. One victim, investigators said, met Ray online at age 12 and was later sexually assaulted by Ray in a park restroom at age 13. Another of the identified minors met Ray during a high school yearbook conference organized by Ray, who was convicted of forcibly having anal sex with the 17-year-old.

Three survivors spoke at the sentencing, highlighting the impact the sexual abuse had on their lives. One survivor said he had “taken his power back,” adding that they would not allow Ray to haunt their dreams. The mother of one survivor also spoke, highlighting the impact her son's experience had on her family.

According to prosecutors, Ray was originally taken into custody in 2019 after a victim confided in a friend, who reported the misconduct to a high school principal, who in turn contacted police.

“District Attorney John Savrnoch recognizes the bravery and courage of the victims who came forward and testified against the perpetrator,” the press release said. “Their strength in facing such challenges is commendable and serves as an inspiration.”