From The Banner · Maya Lora · · 1m 10s
Baltimore teacher arrested for child sexual abuse
Baltimore middle school teacher Rogie Legaspi arrested for sexually abusing teen in Pennsylvania
In brief
Baltimore middle school teacher Rogie Legaspi arrested for sexually abusing teen in Pennsylvania Baltimore teacher Rogie Legaspi arrested for sexual abuse and trafficking a minor in Pennsylvania Originally reported by The Banner.
Arrest details
Rogie Bantigue Legaspi, 56, a Hamilton Elementary/Middle School teacher, was charged with trafficking individuals and sexual assault of a minor in Pennsylvania.
“Rogie Bantigue Legaspi, a teacher at Hamilton Elementary/Middle School, was charged on Friday with trafficking individuals, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, statutory sexual assault and related offenses.”
Timeline of abuse
Legaspi met the victim online when he was 12, began sexual abuse in 2024, and recorded encounters sending explicit images to the boy.
“From about June 2024 until June 2026, Legaspi traveled back and forth between Baltimore and Chester County, Pennsylvania, to visit the victim and first sexually abused him when he was 13.”
Victim's account
The victim, known as 'Alex,' said Legaspi paid him $50-$100 to act like he enjoyed abuse and took him to buy sex toys.
“The victim said the Defendant would pay him $50 or $100 to 'act like he enjoyed it,'”
School response
Principal Natasha Pouncey confirmed Legaspi was placed on leave after arrest and said no current students were involved in the incident.
“Principal Natasha Pouncey sent a letter to the Hamilton school community on Tuesday afternoon stating that Legaspi has been placed on leave after we learned that he was arrested over the weekend for a crime involving a minor in Pennsylvania.”
Community reaction
Parents described shock and horror after seeing missing posters for Legaspi online, with many sharing news quickly.
“An hour ago, parents were on the phone to each other just sobbing. One of my friends said she had to leave her work to throw up.”
Legal status
Legaspi set bail at $5 million, no lawyer listed, and has a preliminary hearing scheduled for September 28.
“On Saturday, District Judge Lauren Holt arraigned Legaspi and set his bail at $5 million, which he could not post.”
Broader context
Legaspi is at least the second Baltimore educator accused of sex crimes against minors this year.
“He’s at least the second Baltimore educator accused of sex crimes against minors this year.”
The takeaway
Baltimore teacher Rogie Legaspi arrested for sexual abuse and trafficking a minor in Pennsylvania
