Story perspectives

Teacher Arrested for Inappropriate Relationship with Former Student

1/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Cody Pester, a 26-year-old sixth-grade teacher and wrestling coach in Palmyra, Nebraska, was arrested for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with an 18-year-old former student.
Pester's relationship reportedly began in May 2025 and included more than 13,000 text messages.
It became sexual in July 2025, violating Nebraska law that prohibits sexual contact between school employees and students within 90 days of enrollment.
The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office is investigating, and the school district has removed Pester from teaching and coaching duties.
Families are encouraged to provide any additional information to law enforcement.

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Story summary

Cody Pester, a 26-year-old sixth-grade teacher and wrestling coach in Palmyra, Nebraska, was arrested for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with an 18-year-old former student.
Pester's relationship reportedly began in May 2025 and included more than 13,000 text messages.
It became sexual in July 2025, violating Nebraska law that prohibits sexual contact between school employees and students within 90 days of enrollment.
The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office is investigating, and the school district has removed Pester from teaching and coaching duties.
Families are encouraged to provide any additional information to law enforcement.