John DeMasi is the coach of his son’s baseball team in New York’s East Meadow just 30 miles east of NYC. In 2010, the first hint of trouble was sent to the little league stating Coach DeMasi was picking favorites to play. It included how bad he was coaching and how bad the team was because of it. Letters then began arriving at his home containing statements about DeMasi family and some of their personal information. It was soon apparent the letters were coming from a disturbed and angry parent. 20/20 will be airing Friday evening regarding the 2012 stalking case.
The family grew close to neighbor Janet Chiauzzi, her son was also on the team. Additionally, she and DeMasi’s wife, Linda were close. So close, Linda started explaining the letters to Chiauzzi, sharing her fears and even quitting her job to make sure no one drove her kids, but herself. A friendship that would later unveil a sinister tie as investigators began closing in on the harasser.
The letters would show up each time containing more and more information and threats. One letter said the location of Coach DeMasi’s daughter and wife were always known, striking fear into the family who became the target of someone unknown. One unsettling letter stated that the individual was making it his life’s mission to observe them on a continual basis and to be careful at night in particular. It went on to say that his wife and children should be most worried, especially at night.
One letter was addressed to his son that read Coach DeMasi would be killed if he continued to coach. Coach DeMasi did carry on coaching and told ABC News that during games he would feel intent eyes on him which made playing and coaching, more difficult.
DeMasi and his family were actually interrogated by county child and family protective services over a tip that he was beating his own children. Fortunately the state of New York did find the allegations to be erroneous and without basis after interviews. Local police started looking closer, and that is when they brought in Linda and her husband to discuss a connection.
Linda, by the request of detectives, had Chiauzzi sign a facade fundraising slip to get her signature. The words signed were “East Meadow” matching writing examples from the letters. In 2011 Chiauzzi was arrested and fully confessed to the crimes. In 2012 she was charged and served 60 days in jail and a five year probation. Friday night Linda will be making an appearance on ABC’s 20/20 at 10 p.m. eastern time, to discuss advice for parents who may be facing similar circumstances.