St. Helens, a community grappling with allegations of sexual abuse within its educational system, saw further developments this week as the former choir teacher, Eric Stearns, faced additional charges. KOIN reported that Stearns, previously indicted on 18 charges of sexual abuse, was arraigned on 11 new charges, bringing the total to 29. Yesterday, he pleaded not guilty to all counts against him.
The severity of the accusations has sent shockwaves through the school district and local community, prompting concrete actions from school officials. Following his arrest, the school board terminated Stearns from St. Helens High School for what they labeled as "neglect of duty" and "immorality." In light of these developments, Judge Thompson ruled to deny bail for Stearns, KGW shared, citing concerning behavior from someone who held a trusted position. Thompson stated, "An individual like him in the community, I believe, is going to re-victimize the people that are out there." The decision highlighted the comfort victims felt coming forward while the accused remained in custody.
The scope of the crisis extends beyond the individual, affecting the leadership core of St. Helens High School. The St. Helens School Board saw its chairperson resign, while the superintendent, Scott Stockwell, was placed on paid administrative leave, according to a tip submitted by someone named Weaver through the SafeOregon website. This tip led to the arrest of Stearns and another former teacher, Mark Collins, both facing sexual abuse charges, along with Kathryn Wagner, the principal, arrested for failing to report abuse.
