Sexual misconduct charge against Vancouver teacher dropped due to statute of limitations
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- A charge against a Vancouver English teacher for alleged sexual misconduct with a student was dropped Thursday, due to the expiration of the statute of limitations, court documents say.
Hudson’s Bay High School teacher Shadbreon Gatson was arrested on Dec. 20 and originally charged with sexual misconduct with a minor after Vancouver police say the alleged victim - who is now an adult - was a 16-year-old student when she claims the misconduct took place.
Gatson made his first court appearance on Monday where, officials said, these allegations were the latest in a pattern of behavior.
“The allegations go back to 2013, but we’re also aware of more recent allegations involving another student that happened in 2024. That will be considered in charging in relationship with this case,” said the Clark County prosecutor. “He also received letters of directions pertaining to interactions with females as early as 2009.”
Prosecutors said Gaston was previously reprimanded for allegedly “failing to maintain a boundary” with two other female students back in 2017.
Vancouver Public Schools says Gaston was placed on leave on Nov. 8, when the district first learned of inappropriate behavior. But law enforcement said the arrest stemmed from the Dec. 2 report filed by the former student.
In a letter sent by VPS to parents and staff on Friday, the district said Gatson will remain on administrative leave as the investigation continues.
"We do take our responsibility to thoroughly and fairly investigate matters such as this very seriously," the letter stated. "The safety of our students is again paramount, and if necessary and appropriate, we will take action at the end of our investigation."
KOIN 6 News asked VPS how many reports of Gaston’s alleged misconduct they have received and has not yet received a response.
Vancouver police said they are searching for more victims and that anyone with information is asked to contact authorities.