Ex-UA Athlete Expresses Fear and Frustration Over Slow Progress in Former Coach’s Criminal Case

More than two years after the arrest of her former track coach, Baillie Gibson continues to fear for her life. The incident involved university coach Craig Carter, who was charged with stalking and threatening Gibson with a box cutter.

In March, a Pima County Superior Court judge permitted Carter to relocate to Utah, just under seven hours from Gibson’s new residence in Wyoming. During a recent deposition, Carter refused to disclose whether he had ever been to Wyoming or visited Gibson’s home. Consequently, the Pima County Attorney’s Office has requested a court inquiry to ensure Carter adheres to his release conditions.

Carter is accused of violating a restraining order from Gibson’s former roommate. Due to the absence of court-ordered electronic monitoring, Gibson remains anxious about her safety, taking measures to install a home-security system.

Gibson expressed her continuous fear, detailing her hypervigilance in public places. She explained, “I can’t even go anywhere and feel safe.”

The situation dates back to 2012, following an alcohol-infused party where Gibson sought a ride from Carter. The next day, he threatened her with explicit photographs taken without her consent, escalating over three years to serious threats and physical assault.

By April 2015, the harassment reached its peak with Carter assaulting Gibson in his office. A week later, Gibson reported the incident to the university police after another confrontation outside a classroom.

Despite graduating with a degree in family studies and human development, the trauma overshadowed her academic achievements. She returned to her hometown and later found work with children. However, her dreams of competing in the Olympics have been abandoned.

Gibson has sought counseling, but Carter’s move to Utah reignited her fears. She recounted that she felt she was making progress until then, describing the emotional setback she experienced.

Following the coverage of her story by ESPN, Gibson received an outpouring of support. Nevertheless, she attests her fear persists daily and longs for an end to the legal proceedings.

Carter admitted to his crimes during an interview with university police and confirmed his actions to ESPN. He is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault and stalking. His lawyer, Dan Cooper, has not commented on the case.

Alongside the criminal case, Gibson has filed a civil lawsuit against Carter and the University of Arizona, naming several university officials as defendants. The state has spent $335,500 on Carter’s defense in the civil trial so far.

Carter countered with a claim against Gibson and her attorney, citing emotional distress. With ongoing legal battles, Gibson remains uncertain when it will all end, stating, “I’m never going to feel safe until this is all over.”

Contact reporter Caitlin Schmidt at cschmidt@tucson.com or 573-4191. Twitter: @caitlinschmidt