Bend Senior HS head softball coach replaced as police investigate reported girls’ locker room incident

(Update: New Bend-La Pine Schools comment)

Placed on paid leave, won't return to coaching in district this school year

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Bend Police confirmed Wednesday to NewsChannel 21 that they are investigating a former Bend Senior High School head softball coach, who has been replaced after a reported incident involving the girls’ locker room.

Police told us Wednesday that action was taken at the school level, and we confirmed the coach has been replaced.

Police are not releasing his name, citing the ongoing investigation. The case is focused on a reported incident involving the coach and the girls locker room. Police declined to give further details, as it is an ongoing investigation.

Bend-La Pine Schools Director of Communications Scott Maben confirmed to NewsChannel 21 that the now-former head coach "is on paid leave at this time. He will not return to coaching in the district this school year."

Maben said Thursday that the school district is investigating the alleged incident. "We are awaiting the conclusion of the Bend Police investigation before taking further action," he said.

NewsChannel 21 received a tip Wednesday about the investigation, asking whether the case requires mandatory reporting.

In Oregon, school employees who suspect abuse are required to report it to the state Department of Human Services. The definition of abuse includes mental abuse and sexual exploitation.