Two teachers arrested for alleged sexual abuse of St Helens High School students

ST HELENS Oregon (KPTV) – A current and former St. Helens High School teacher were arrested Tuesday on charges of sexually abusing students.

According to St. Helens police, 46-year-old Eric Stearns was arrested in the 400 block of North 16th Street and 64-year-old Mark Collins was arrested in the 900 block of Port Avenue in Beaverton.

Stearns and Collins were arrested following a two-month investigation by St. Helens police based on allegations of prior sexual abuse at the high school.

As of Tuesday evening, Stearns is still employed as a teacher at St. Helens High School, and Collins is a retired teacher.

SEE ALSO:

According to St. Helens PD, former student victims and other possible victims have been identified.

“We're a little worried because she's been in close contact with him since he started school and also does extracurricular activities outside of school,” said April Godden, the mother of one of Stearns' students. “I just felt sick. “My stomach felt good knowing that I was putting my daughter in the hands of these people who are supposed to be trusted with children.”

Stearns was charged with seven counts of second-degree sexual abuse and one count of third-degree sexual abuse.

Collins was charged with two counts of second-degree sexual abuse and one count of attempted second-degree sexual abuse.

St. Helens High School parents said they received an email from the district on Tuesday that read in part:

“At St. Helens School District, providing a safe, supportive environment for our students and staff is our top priority…Earlier today, local law enforcement notified us of the arrest of a current and former district employee. While we are unable to provide further details due to the ongoing investigation, we would like to remind you that we are cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities on this matter. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work together to create a safe and positive environment for everyone.”

Godden said she thought the message was vague.

“No names have been released… I would have liked it released. Hey, we have this teacher. That's his name. He was arrested on these charges,” Godden said.

Godden expressed concern about why Stearns was not fired two months ago when the crimes were first reported.

Police said they believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.

Anyone with information about the case was asked to contact St. Helens Detectives Edwards and Smith at 503-397-1521.

Copyright 2024 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.