Former Gresham Gymnastics Coach Faces More Abuse Charges, Granted $200K Bail

Eric Stinson, accused of sexually abusing child athletes, can be released before trial under stricter conditions.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:50am

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A former gymnastics coach in Gresham, Oregon, Eric Stinson, is facing additional charges of sexually abusing child athletes at his gym. Despite objections from some victims and their families, a judge ruled that Stinson can be released before trial on $200,000 bail with stricter conditions, including no contact with minors.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of children in youth sports programs and the challenges of balancing due process with community protection when allegations of abuse surface. The judge's decision to grant bail, despite the new charges, has raised questions about whether the conditions are strict enough to prevent further incidents.

The details

Stinson, the former director of the Northwest Gymnastic Training Center in Gresham, is now facing additional charges of sexual abuse of a minor. The judge ruled that Stinson can be released before his trial but set bail at $200,000 and imposed more strict conditions, including no contact with any of the victims or any minors and no presence anywhere minors might be. The district attorney's office believes there could be more victims and is encouraging them to come forward.

  • Stinson was first arraigned on the initial charges earlier this year.
  • The new charges and bail hearing took place on Thursday, March 27, 2026.

The players

Eric Stinson

The former director of the Northwest Gymnastic Training Center in Gresham, Oregon, who is facing multiple charges of sexually abusing child athletes.

Judge Benjamin Souede

The judge who ruled that Stinson can be released before his trial on $200,000 bail with stricter conditions.

Former gymnastics student

A victim who expressed disappointment with the judge's decision to allow Stinson's release, feeling the conditions were not strict enough.

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What they’re saying

“I am disappointed. I feel like they could have put him behind bars for a little bit while things got sorted out because I believe he was a threat to the community.”

— Former gymnastics student

“Like we said in court, he had authority over people and took advantage of that. Who's to say that won't happen again out in society.”

— Former gymnastics student

“Mr. Stinson is entitled to a form of release in this case.”

— Judge Benjamin Souede

What’s next

The judge's decision on Stinson's bail and release conditions will be closely watched, and the district attorney's office is encouraging any additional victims to come forward.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing the rights of the accused with the need to protect vulnerable children in youth sports programs. The judge's decision to grant bail, despite the new charges, has raised concerns about whether the conditions are strict enough to prevent further incidents and ensure community safety.