Beaverton Track Coach Lured Teen Girl For Sex: Police

BEAVERTON, OR — A Sunset High School track coach was arrested Tuesday for allegedly having a sexual relationship with one of the teen athletes he coached.

Branden Michael Helms, 25, was taken to Washington County Jail following his arrest July 10. He is charged with luring a minor and sex abuse.

Beaverton investigators in late June learned Helms was allegedly having a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old girl he coached as a seasonal employee helping with the track program at Sunset High School in Beaverton. And although the investigation officially began June 26, Shaw said the pair may have began their sexual relationship at least two months earlier.

A secret indictment describing the alleged misconduct was filed in Washington County July 9. In it, Helms is accused of engaging in sexual contact with the girl at least four times since May 31.

Helms, a former Sunset High School student, graduated from the Beaverton School District in 2011.

Helms began his non-contractual employment with the district, serving officially as a Casual Labor Meet Manager, during the 2016-17 track season. Helms stayed on with the district for the 2017-18 season, but fulfilled his term and ended his seasonal employment prior to his arrest, according to BSD spokeswoman Melissa Larson.

Anyone who may have additional information about this investigation is asked to contact Beaverton police at 503-629-0111.

Image via Beaverton Police Department