Abuse of Power or Authority / Child Molestation / Child Rape

1265: David Wakefield

Cajsa LilliehookLeave a comment
David Wakefield

David Wakefield was the athletic director and principal of Damascus Christian School in Damascus, Oregon. He has been accused of sexually abusing a minor, a student in his school for four years, beginning when she was fourteen.

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Department believes there are more victims and ask them to come forward, calling the Sheriff’s office at 503-723-4949 or by using the online form. Please reference CCSO Case # 22-020999.

Former Damascus Christian girls basketball co- - Outlook, The (Gresham, OR) - February 29, 2024 - page 1 February 29, 2024 | Outlook, The (Gresham, OR) | Christopher Keizur By Christopher Keizur Pamplin Media Group A husband and wife who coached Damascus Christian girls basketball are accused of sexually abusing a student-athlete over the course of four years. David Wakefield, 60, and Rachel Wakefield, 54, were taken into custody Wednesday, Feb. 28, for allegedly abusing an underage girl on the basketball team between January 2013 and June 2017. Both are being held in the Clackamas County Jail after being taken into custody from their home in Mulino. David Wakefield faces 20 counts of second-degree sexual abuse; while Rachel Wakefield faces 11 counts of second-degree sexual abuse. The former is being represented by Attorney Barry Engle, while the latter is represented by Attorney Zach Stern. In a joint statement released by the defense attorneys, the couple denies the charges and "(looks) forward to the day when the truth comes out." According to court documents they have been aware of the allegations since 2021. David Wakefield turned himself into authorities when the charges were filed. Neither were employed by the school at that time. David Wakefield was a prominent local coach, leading the small 1A Damascus Christian for 16 seasons (more than 600 games), including a pair of championships in 2013 and 2015, while the alleged abuse was occurring. In addition to his coaching duties, he was a teacher and athletic director for the Eagles. Rachel Wakefield was his co-coach, and was also heavily involved with fundraising activities for the school and community events. "We are heartbroken to hear that charges have been filed against a former employee David Wakefield and his spouse Rachel Wakefield," the school wrote in a statement. "Damascus Community Church and Christian School (take) these reports very seriously and the safety of our students and staff is a top priority." The jury trial is scheduled to begin in April. Copyright © 2024 The Outlook, All rights reserved.
Former Damascus Christian girls basketball co- – Outlook, The (Gresham, OR) – February 29, 2024 – page 1
February 29, 2024 | Outlook, The (Gresham, OR) | Christopher Keizur

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