Two Oregon High School Teachers Arrested on Sexual Abuse Charges

The Accused Educators

On November 12, 2024, St. Helens Police arrested Eric Stearns, a 46-year-old choir teacher, and Mark Collins, a 64-year-old retired math teacher, on charges of sexual abuse involving multiple students, according to The New York Times [1.].

Stearns faces seven counts of second-degree sexual abuse and one count of third-degree sexual abuse, allegedly involving six students between 2015 and early 2024. Collins is charged with two counts of second-degree sexual abuse and one count of attempted second-degree sexual abuse, with incidents reportedly occurring between 2017 and 2023.

Uncovering the Allegations

The investigation began in September 2024 after a former student, Doug Weaver, posted a TikTok video accusing the school of protecting predatory teachers during his time there [2.]. The video went viral, prompting current students to come forward with similar allegations.

Weaver’s tip led St. Helens Police to initiate a two-month investigation, during which they conducted interviews and reviewed school records. Detectives discovered multiple historical reports made by students from 2019 to 2023, detailing allegations against Stearns and Collins that the school administration had not reported to law enforcement, as required by state law.

Administrative Response and Community Outcry

Following the arrests, the community’s response was swift and vehement. Parents and students expressed outrage at a school board meeting, accusing administrators of ignoring complaints and allowing the abuse to continue.

One parent accused the administration of being part of the grooming process by failing to report the abuse. Students shared personal accounts of inappropriate behavior by the accused teachers, highlighting a culture of negligence within the school.

In the wake of the scandal, Principal Katy Wagner and Superintendent Scot Stockwell were placed on paid administrative leave. School Board Chairman Ryan Scholl also resigned from his position. The district canceled classes and after-school events to address the situation and prioritize the safety and well-being of students and staff.

Historical Context of Abuse

This incident is not the first time St. Helens High School has faced allegations of sexual misconduct. In 2019, teacher and coach Kyle Wroblewski pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual abuse [3.].

The school district settled a lawsuit with the victim for $3.5 million, one of the largest settlements ever paid by an Oregon school district. These recurring incidents have raised concerns about a longstanding culture of abuse and cover-up within the school district.

Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigations

Both Stearns and Collins have pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. Stearns’ bail was set at $150,000, with conditions prohibiting contact with minors and the victims.

Collins was released on the condition that he not have contact with minors or places where minors congregate. The Columbia County District Attorney’s Office is investigating whether the school district violated state laws by failing to report the allegations to law enforcement.

Community Impact and Moving Forward

The scandal has deeply affected the St. Helens community. Mass protests have taken place, with students and parents demanding accountability and systemic changes to prevent future incidents.

The district has emphasized its commitment to transparency and creating a supportive environment for students. Additional counseling staff have been brought in to provide emotional support and resources for those affected.

Conclusion

The arrests of Eric Stearns and Mark Collins have brought to light serious issues within St. Helens High School and the broader district. The community’s response underscores the need for accountability and systemic change to ensure the safety and well-being of students. As legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on healing and rebuilding trust within the community.

Get a Free Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Sexual Abuse Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Sexual Abuse Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Again, if you were the victim of sexual abuse, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and our lawyers can help.

References:
1. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/17/us/oregon-teachers-arrested-sexual-abuse.html
2. https://www.tiktok.com/@dougweaverart/video/7436579380832292138
3. https://www.opb.org/article/2024/03/15/st-helens-oregon-sexual-abuse-oregon-public-school-coach-kyle-wroblewski-lawsuit-settlement/