An Oregon youth cheerleading coach was arrested and charged with sexual abuse on Friday, concluding a three-week investigation into allegations of sexual abuse at a local gym.
Police said they lured the victim to a street corner in St. Helens and arrested suspect Anthony Trenkler, 27. Statement from St Helens Police StationDetectives then executed a search warrant and seized additional evidence, police said.
Police said they began investigating the cheerleading coach on Aug. 13 after receiving a report of conduct from Trenkler, who worked at St. Helens Vault Elite. Since the investigation began, additional victims have been found, police said.
Vault Elite reportedly fired Trenkler in August after learning of the investigation. Gym Facebook Pageand asked parents to attend a meeting on August 15 to address their concerns.
“Vault Elite has terminated its contract with this coach and we are fully cooperating with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of our players,” the gym announced. “He will no longer be permitted at the gym. The safety of our players is our number one priority. Classes and camps have been canceled until further notice.”
Police said Trenkler was initially charged with one count of sexual abuse and two counts of attempted sexual abuse, but the charges were later expanded to six counts of sexual abuse and attempted sexual abuse.
Police fear there may be more victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
