Astoria, OR – Duece Keey Loi Phaly, 28, was arrested on Friday, December 13, after being charged with 10 counts of second-degree sexual abuse and one count of third-degree sexual abuse. Phaly, who worked as a math teacher and wrestling coach at South Albany High School from 2018 to 2022, is accused of engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student beginning in 2022.
The investigation was launched on December 11, when a school resource officer was notified about the alleged misconduct. Local law enforcement quickly began an inquiry into the matter, and after gathering sufficient evidence, Phaly was arrested just two days later. He was booked into the Linn County Jail, where he remains in custody.
In a statement released by the Albany Police Department, a spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the allegations. “Sex crimes against children are especially heinous and require an extremely thorough investigation,” the statement read. “The Greater Albany Public School District has worked cooperatively with the Albany Police Department to ensure a complete examination into this matter is completed.”
Phaly’s arrest has sent shockwaves through the local community. As a teacher and coach, he was entrusted with the care and education of students, making the alleged abuse even more alarming for many parents and residents of Albany.
At this time, police have not released additional details about the nature of the relationship or the identity of the victim. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have pledged to continue their efforts to fully understand the scope of the situation.
Phaly’s former role as both a math teacher and wrestling coach meant that he was in close contact with students outside of regular classroom hours, which may have created an environment where the alleged abuse could take place over a prolonged period. The timeline of the alleged abuse, beginning in 2022, has raised questions about whether warning signs were missed earlier.
The case has sparked discussions about safeguarding practices within schools, as well as the protocols in place to prevent and identify potential abuse. The Greater Albany Public School District has stated that they are fully cooperating with authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. The district has also pledged to support the students and families impacted by the case, though no further comments have been made about the investigation or the specific student involved.
The arrest of Phaly serves as a painful reminder of the responsibility that educators and school staff have to maintain appropriate boundaries with students. This case highlights the importance of vigilance and transparency when it comes to safeguarding young people in educational settings.
As the investigation continues, both local law enforcement and the school district are under scrutiny to ensure that all steps are taken to protect students and prevent future incidents.
Phaly faces serious criminal charges that, if proven, could lead to significant legal consequences. Second-degree sexual abuse is a felony in Oregon, and the charges related to the abuse of a minor carry severe penalties. As the case moves forward, Phaly’s legal team will likely mount a defense, but the gravity of the allegations has already left an indelible mark on the community.
The next steps in the legal process will include court hearings, where more details about the case may be revealed. Until then, the community remains on edge, waiting for further developments in a case that has shaken the local educational system to its core.
