Banks High School Teacher Arrested For Sexually Abusing Student

On the morning of January 8, 2025, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to the city of Banks were notified by staff at Banks High School about concerns that a math teacher had sexual contact with a student. Deputies learned the school district was made aware of the allegations on January 7 and immediately placed the teacher, 66-year-old Wymon Smith, on leave. Officials at the high school notified the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline on January 7th, as required by law.

The case was assigned to detectives in the Violent Crimes Unit, which also handles child abuse investigations. Detectives learned Smith had sexually inappropriate conversations with multiple students and had sexual contact with at least one student on school property.

On the afternoon of January 14, 2025, detectives arrested Smith. Smith was lodged in jail on charges of sexual abuse in the second degree and luring a minor. Oregon law specifies that any sexual contact perpetrated by a teacher or a coach to a student is a felony.

Detectives are concerned there are additional victims and want to speak with anyone who has information about Smith’s concerning behaviors. Additional charges are possible as the investigation continues.

The Banks School District continues to cooperate with the law enforcement investigation.

The release of Smith’s booking photo is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity.