INDEPENDENCE, OR — A teacher in Oregon’s Central School District has been arrested after Independence police said an extensive investigation uncovered several child sex crime allegations. The district also placed the educator on administrative leave while officials continued reviewing the case.
Police identified the man as 28-year-old Ian Ikaika Imamura, who was taken into custody on July 2.
The Arrest and School Response
Authorities said the arrest followed a criminal investigation led by the Independence Police Department. Chief Juventino “Tino” Banuelos said detectives and school resource officers worked through the case with what he described as professionalism and dedication.
The district has launched its own inquiry and is coordinating with police as the investigation moves forward.
What Police Say He Was Booked On
Imamura was booked into the Polk County Jail on a long list of charges, including luring a minor, online sexual corruption of a child in the second degree, and using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct. He also faces counts involving child sexual abuse material, computer crime, identity theft, and witness tampering.
The charges also include encouraging child sexual abuse in both the first and second degrees.
A Separate Alert From Sherwood Police
After the arrest, Sherwood police issued their own notice saying Imamura had previously worked at Sherwood Middle School and Sherwood High School during the 2022-23 school year. Officers asked anyone with information about contact with him to reach out to investigators.
The department directed people to its non-emergency line at 503-629-0111 so they could be connected with the case team.
What Officials Are Asking Now
Independence police said anyone with helpful information should call the department at 503-838-1214. Banuelos said cases involving children are especially hard on victims, families, and the wider community.
He also urged anyone affected by the case to seek help from counselors or victim advocacy services as the investigation continues.
Riders Times covers the Pacific Northwest, one story at a time.
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