GRESHAM, Ore. — Gresham Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims after arresting a 20-year-old man accused of posing as a teenager for several years to gain access to youth basketball events, supportive services, and children across Multnomah County.
According to investigators, the case began in May 2026 after police received multiple reports regarding the conduct of Ethan Bohanan, 20. Detectives say Bohanan allegedly presented himself as a 14- to 16-year-old emancipated minor over the course of several years, at times claiming to be enrolled at various local middle schools.
Police allege Bohanan used the false identity to participate in youth basketball events, receive youth support services, and engage in sexual relationships with multiple children. Investigators said Bohanan continued claiming to be a juvenile even during interactions with law enforcement.
In June, Bohanan was charged with multiple offenses, including sex crimes and physical assaults involving child victims, as well as crimes related to the unlawful use of a firearm.
Detectives say they have since uncovered evidence suggesting Bohanan physically and sexually assaulted additional children who have not yet been identified. Authorities believe some victims may not realize Bohanan was actually an adult.
As part of the investigation, Gresham Police have worked with local school districts, youth sports leagues, and organizations serving young people. Investigators said they have found no evidence that Bohanan was formally enrolled in any Multnomah County school or participated in district-operated sports programs. However, they confirmed he took part in activities organized by nonprofit youth leagues and organizations that rent facilities at local schools.
Police believe Bohanan had contact with children throughout Multnomah County and are urging anyone with information about his conduct, or who believes they or someone they know may have been a victim, to contact Detective Lindsay Friderich at 503-618-3128 or by email at Lindsay.Friderich@GreshamOregon.gov.
Additional information on preventing, reporting, and investigating sexual abuse in youth sports is available through the U.S. Center for SafeSport, which was established under the Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017.
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