PORTLAND, Ore. — A social studies teacher at Gresham High School, Oscar Armando Ramirez, 36, was taken into custody by Portland Police Bureau on Thursday following allegations of engaging in inappropriate online communications with a person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.
According to authorities, Ramirez was involved in sexually explicit chats over the course of four days, during which he disclosed that he teaches students from 9th to 11th grade. The conversations escalated to graphic discussions about sexual acts he intended to perform. Law enforcement revealed that the “13-year-old girl” was in fact an undercover officer from the Bothell Police Department in Washington, conducting a sting operation.
The Undercover Operation and Arrest
The Bothell Police Department alerted Portland authorities on December 5, 2024, after initiating the undercover operation. Once Portland police discovered Ramirez’s status as a high school teacher, the Gresham-Barlow School District was promptly informed. Ramirez was immediately placed on administrative leave pending investigation.
Following a grand jury indictment in Multnomah County on June 3, Ramirez was arrested at his home in Southeast Portland’s Sunnyside neighborhood and booked into the county detention center. He now faces serious charges, including three counts of luring a minor and one count of second-degree online sexual corruption of a child.
School District Responds
The Gresham-Barlow School District issued a statement acknowledging the arrest and condemning the alleged conduct. Ramirez has been employed as a social studies teacher at Gresham High School since fall 2021. At the time of hiring, the required criminal background check and fingerprinting did not reveal any prior offenses.
“The district was first made aware of the investigation on December 6, 2024, and immediately placed Mr. Ramirez on administrative leave,” said a district spokesperson. “Due to the sensitive nature of the police investigation, we could not disclose information earlier but have maintained close communication with law enforcement.”
Importantly, officials stressed that there is currently no evidence indicating that any Gresham High School students were involved in the case. The district also plans to provide counseling and emotional support for students, staff, and families affected by the distressing news.
Community Safety and Support
The district assured the community that they are following all human resources procedures related to Ramirez’s employment status as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, Portland Police encourage anyone with additional information related to Ramirez’s alleged activities to come forward.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about online safety and the risks of predatory behavior facilitated by digital platforms. It also underscores the importance of vigilance by schools and communities to protect children from exploitation.
A Call for Awareness
Experts emphasize that while sting operations play a critical role in catching offenders, parents and guardians must also educate children about internet safety and the potential dangers of interacting with strangers online. Schools and law enforcement agencies nationwide continue to collaborate on programs aimed at preventing such crimes and supporting victims.
If you or someone you know needs support or wishes to report suspicious activity, contact local law enforcement or child protection agencies immediately.
