BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A former Bellingham Public Schools employee has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.

BPS announced Friday, Oct. 30 that a former student, who is now an adult, reported an alleged sexual assault to them on Oct. 8. They say the reported incident occurred in 2013 and involved former BPS employee Russ Robinson.

My Bellingham Now refrains from publishing suspects’ names until they have made their first court appearance or there is a public need to identify.

From 2000 to 2024, Robinson coached wrestling and football in the district.

He also worked as a campus monitor from 2009 to 2021, becoming the district director of safety and security in 2024 before leaving BPS in 2026 to work for another district.

Robinson received the One Schoolhouse Award from the district in 2024 for his work as a “reliable and compassionate presence” in the district.

Before the report was submitted, BPS says they had not received any reports about Robinson regarding sexual misconduct.

Robinson was arrested and booked into the Whatcom County Jail with out bail on Thursday, Oct. 29. MBN has reached out to Bellingham Police regarding the details of the arrest.

BPS says they are committed and trained to take action and address concerning behavior. Their safety tip line allows people to report any unethical activity anonymously to school officials.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic/sexual violence, call 800-656-HOPE (4673) to reach the National Sexual Assault Hotline.