June 25, 2025
Monroe, NY
The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) at Monroe announces the arrest of Joshua R. DeCoteau, age 25, of Highland Mills, NY, on June 20, 2025. De Coteau was taken into custody following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor.
DeCoteau has been charged with the following offenses:
• Forcible Touching, Class A Misdemeanor
• Six counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Act in a Manner Injure a Child Less than 17, Class A Misdemeanor
The investigation began in April 2025, when a report of sexual abuse was referred to the State Police by the Blooming Grove Police Department. DeCoteau is accused of forcibly touching the intimate parts of a minor and endangering the welfare of two minors.
DeCoteau was a former substitute teacher at Monroe-Woodbury High School. He also previously attended The Journey Church in Harriman, NY, where he would interact with both of his victims.
DeCoteau was processed without incident at the State Police barracks in Monroe. He was arraigned in City of Middletown Court and remanded to the Orange County Jail in lieu of $500 cash bail, a $2,500 secured bond, or a 10% partially secured bond of $2,500.
He is scheduled to appear in Village of Harriman Court on July 16, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., and in Village of Monroe Court on August 5, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
Contact Troop F Public Information Officer: Trooper Jennifer Alvarez
Troop F Commander:
Major Andre R. Terry