PALMYRA, Neb. (KOLN) - The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office provided additional details Tuesday morning regarding the arrest of a sixth-grade Palmyra teacher and wrestling coach accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a former student.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the investigation by the Otoe County Sheriff’s Office in December 2025 after receiving an intake from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Upon further investigation, deputies learned that the alleged crime occurred in Lincoln.

The Otoe County attorney contacted the Lancaster County attorney’s office, and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office took over the investigation.

LSO Chief Deputy Ben Houchin said a relationship between 26-year-old Cody Pester of Lincoln, a teacher at Palmyra Junior/Senior High School, and an 18-year-old Palmyra graduate began in May 2025. Pester and the victim reportedly met during athletic events.

According to Houchin, Pester and the victim had more than 13,000 texts during that period.

Houchin said the relationship turned sexual in July, violating Nebraska Statute 28-316.01, which prohibits school employees from engaging in sexual activity or contact with students who are enrolled or were enrolled within the previous 90 days.

Pester was arrested Monday on suspicion of an inappropriate relationship with a former student.

District OR-1 said in a letter to families that it has removed Pester from the classroom and all extracurricular activities.

School officials are cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

Families or students with additional information regarding this case are encouraged to contact the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office (402) 441-6500.