Community responds to 'shocking' sex abuse charges against parents of Ana Wakefield

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Neighbors are in shock after a husband and wife duo – and former Damascus Christian School basketball coaches – stand accused of sexually abusing an underage player.

The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office says 60-year-old David Wakefield and his wife, 54-year-old Rachel Wakefield, were taken into custody at their Mulino home on Wednesday.

"They were pretty quiet," recalled Matt Johnson, a former neighbor of the Wakefields. "So I guess sometimes you have to watch out for the quiet ones."

KOIN has been following the Wakefield family since 2017, after their daughter Ana was nearly fatally stuck by an intoxicated driver. Her rough road to recovery even became the focus of a short film, "Fight Like Ana."

Now, the couple faces a combined 31 counts for allegedly sexually abusing a student-athlete over the course of four years. David is being represented by Attorney Barry Engle, while Rachel is represented by Attorney Zach Stern.

"It's shocking," Johnson added. "Especially with me having three daughters about the same ages, even younger. And, you know, hearing it, it just doesn't make any sense."

In a public statement, Damascus Christian School's Superintendent Zachary Davidson said they were heartbroken to hear of the charges.

"We are heartbroken to hear that charges have been filed against a former employee David Wakefield and his spouse Rachel Wakefield. Although this couple have not been connected to the church or school for some time, Damascus Community Church and Christian School still take these reports very seriously and the safety of our students and staff is a top priority. If requested, we will fully cooperate with law enforcement and the courts during this process. If you have any additional information regarding these charges or other allegations, we encourage you to contact the Clackamas County Sherriff’s Office directly. Please join us in praying for all those involved in this situation," the statement said.

In a joint statement released by the defense attorneys, the "have been valued members of the Clackamas County Community for their entire lives.  They deny the charges and look forward to the day when the truth comes out,"

The Wakefield's attorney told KOIN 6 News that Dave and Rachel have been valued members of the Clackamas County community their entire lives. Furthermore, they deny the charges and look forward to the truth coming out.

In the meantime, the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office is searching for potential additional victims and anyone with information is encouraged to contact their tip line at 503-723-4949.