Baker City contractor arrested on child sexual abuse charges
By Logan Bagett on Friday, April 24th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY – UPDATE – (Monday, 4/27): MayDay, Inc. has issued a formal statement. Find it below:
(Statement from MayDay, Inc.)
MayDay, Inc. is aware of the situation involving a former board member. Our hearts are with survivors and those impacted, and our priority remains their safety, dignity, and well‑being. The individual is no longer affiliated with the organization.
MayDay remains steadfast in our commitment to survivor‑centered advocacy.
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UPDATE – (Friday, 4/24): The Haines Stampede and Rodeo Association has issued a statement about Eric Swanlund, who is a former board member.
Find the full statement below:
(From Haines Stampede and Rodeo)
“Rodeo family, friends and supporters,
It has been brought to the rodeo Board’s attention about a recent post from the Baker County Sheriff’s Office regarding the arrest of Eric Swanlund, and comments of concern on social media in regards to him being involved with the Haines Stampede Rodeo Association.
Eric resigned from the Haines Stampede Rodeo Association several months ago and has not had any participation or dealings with the Association and/or events since his resignation. Nor will he ever in the future.
We appreciate your support. If you have any concerns, please reach out to the Board and we will answer any questions to the best of our ability.”
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PREVIOUS: (Press Release from the Baker County Sheriff’s Office)
In March 2026, the Baker County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation after receiving a report of child sexual abuse involving Eric Vincent Swanlund, 43 yoa, of Baker City. Swanlund, a local contractor, was involved in a number of volunteer organizations in Baker County.
During the investigation, it was discovered the sexual abuse had been ongoing for a period of nearly two years but was never reported. Swanlund abused the child victim, who was known to him, on numerous occasions.
On April 23, 2026, deputies contacted Swanlund on a traffic stop on Highway 86 and placed him in custody. A search warrant was then executed at his residence located on Failing Avenue in Baker City.
Deputies transported Swanlund to the Baker County Jail where he was lodged. He is currently charged with:
Rape III (10 counts)
Sexual Abuse III (10 counts)
Sodomy III (10 counts)
Strangulation
Online Sexual Corruption of a Child II
Coercion
Baker County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Baker City Police Department.
