Former Rockingham County teacher sentenced to prison for sex acts with student

A former Rockingham County middle school teacher is going to prison for having a sexual relationship with a student under the age of 15.

John Henry Rose IV, who also taught in Bedford County, faced charges in both jurisdictions.

On Monday, he was sentenced to six years in prison in Bedford County Circuit Court, and following his release, will face seven years of probation, according to court records. He pleaded guilty in September to six counts of indecent liberties and two counts of carnal knowledge.

He still faces four felony charges in Rockingham County for the alleged abuse: two counts of indecent act with a child by a custodian and two counts of carnal knowledge with a 13- to 14-year-old child. A plea hearing is scheduled for May 4 in Rockingham County Circuit Court.

Rockingham County Schools Superintendent Dr. Larry Shifflett released a statement to the media following the arrest saying the system was “deeply saddened by this alleged crime.”

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ICYMI

• Former Rockingham County school teacher charged with alleged child sexual crimes

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The relationship allegedly began at Elkton Middle School with the sexual acts occurring multiple times in 2023. After Rose left Rockingham County, he went to Bedford County where he taught history at Staunton River Middle School.

The victim told police they had sexual interactions in both counties including at his home over Christmas break.