The ongoing frustration for parents and community members in St. Helens will persist for an indefinite period of time. KOIN 6 News reports that the long-awaited investigation into allegations of sexual abuse within the St. Helens School District has been paused indefinitely due to legal issues.

The investigation, which was launched on December 2, 2024, followed multiple allegations of sexual abuse involving high school choir teacher Eric Stearns and former teacher Mark Collins; both of them are also facing several charges related to the case. Since then, criminal charges have also been filed against St. Helens High School Principal Dr. Katy Wagner, who is accused of failing to report the incidents. Additionally, 10 other district staff members are currently on leave as part of the investigation.

Initially, the district had planned to release the findings within two months, but that timeline was later extended by two to three weeks. Now, the district has no definitive timeline for the release of the investigation’s results.

In a statement issued this week, Acting Superintendent Dr. Karen Gray explained, “After the investigation was initiated, the district received litigation claims, and as a result, we are unable to release the report. The findings must remain under attorney-client privilege for the time being.”