Former Rockingham County school teacher charged with alleged child sexual crimes

A former Rockingham County Public Schools teacher is facing four felony charges due to an alleged sexual crime involving a child.

John Henry Rose IV is facing the Class 6 criminal charges for indecent acts with a child.

Rose was arrested on Aug. 16. According to online court records, a bond hearing is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 23, at 3 p.m. in Bedford County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

The arrest warrant, dated Aug. 6, allege the relationship began in Rockingham County and continued after Rose was transferred to Bedford County. The victim reported sexual encounters in both counties, according to a social media post by Star News TV.

Rose previously worked at Elkton Middle School where he taught eighth grade civics and coached boys’ basketball, according to multiple online news reports.

“We are deeply saddened by this alleged crime,” said Dr. Larry Shifflett, superintendent of RCPS, in a statement to media. “The safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority, and we take these allegations very seriously. We have fully cooperated with law enforcement authorities in their investigation.

“We are limited in what information can be shared, because we need to allow due process of law to proceed to determine guilt or innocence. Our goal is to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for all of our students. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that our schools remain a safe place where students can thrive.”

Rose is currently employed by Staunton River Middle School in Bedford County. Due to the allegations against him, he has been placed on administrative leave.

A preliminary court date has been set for Nov. 18 at 2 p.m.

Rose faces up to five years in prison for each felony charge.

The investigation is ongoing, according to the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office. Additional charges are possible.