Former Upstate NY Teacher Charged with Raping Student

Drake Galarneau pleads not guilty to 9 counts, including 8 of third-degree rape, for alleged encounters on school property.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:34pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a classroom door handle, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The shocking allegations against a former teacher have left the Cohoes community searching for answers and demanding accountability.NYC Today

A former high school English teacher in Upstate New York has been charged with raping a 17-year-old student during a relationship that allegedly took place on school property. Drake Galarneau, 36, pleaded not guilty to a nine-count indictment, including eight counts of third-degree rape and one count of endangering the welfare of a child.

Why it matters

The case has shocked the local community, as Galarneau is a lifetime resident and the son-in-law of the Cohoes mayor. The school district is working to provide support services for students and staff as they process the news.

The details

The allegations were first reported to the Cohoes High School principal on March 24, resulting in Galarneau being placed on immediate leave before his resignation was accepted on Wednesday. The encounters allegedly occurred between May and October of 2025.

  • The allegations were first reported to the Cohoes High School principal on March 24, 2026.
  • Galarneau was placed on immediate leave on March 24, 2026.
  • Galarneau's resignation was accepted on Wednesday, April 2, 2026.
  • The alleged encounters occurred between May and October of 2025.

The players

Drake Galarneau

A 36-year-old former high school English teacher in Upstate New York who has been charged with raping a 17-year-old student.

Cohoes High School

The high school where Galarneau taught and the alleged encounters occurred.

Cohoes City School District

The school district that accepted Galarneau's resignation and is providing support services for students and staff.

Bill Keeler

The mayor of Cohoes and Galarneau's father-in-law.

Peggy O'Shea

The superintendent of the Cohoes City School District.

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What they’re saying

“The district is taking steps to provide additional support services for students and staff as they process the news.”

— Peggy O'Shea, Superintendent, Cohoes City School District

What’s next

Galarneau is subject to a nightly curfew and a no-contact order of protection until his next court date on May 1, 2026, when the judge will decide on his bond and other conditions.

The takeaway

This case has shaken the Cohoes community and raised concerns about the abuse of power by teachers. It highlights the need for stronger safeguards and support systems to protect students from sexual exploitation, even in small-town school districts.