Teacher who raped boy could get 20-year term

5/13/2006

KENTON, Ohio A middle school science teacher and coach who has admitted raping a 14-year-old male student could receive up to 20 years in prison when he s sentenced.

Jeffery Bartlett, 34, pleaded guilty on Wednesday in Hardin County Common Pleas Court on a bill of information on the two counts of rape.

The teacher, who also coached freshman basketball, taught at Kenton Middle School for 11 years. Authorities said the crimes took place April 29 at Bartlett s home.

The Board of Education decided at a special meeting on Tuesday to give Bartlett a written notice that his contract would be terminated on the grounds of immorality, high school Principal Arch Rodgers said.

A sentencing date has not been set, Hardin County Prosecutor Brad Bailey said.