A former school bus driver in Perry County, Pennsylvania, John Joseph Straining Jr., was arrested on Sunday (May 11) for allegedly inappropriately touching elementary school students. The 50-year-old, known as "Mr. John" to the students, faces multiple felony charges, including institutional sexual assault and indecent assault of minors under 13.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, Straining allegedly tickled male and female students from Susquenita Elementary School on the bus, focusing on their chests and thighs, despite being told to stop. Surveillance video from the bus reportedly captured these incidents occurring between October 2024 and April 2025.
Straining was employed by Rohrer Bus Company, which provides transportation for the Susquenita School District. He was terminated from his position on April 14 for an unrelated matter. The bus company stated that the allegations against Straining contradict their mission and values and confirmed their cooperation with the police investigation.
Straining was taken into custody without incident and is being held at Perry County Prison after failing to post $200,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 20 before Magisterial District Judge Richard Gibney in Duncannon. The Pennsylvania State Police are continuing their investigation to identify and interview other potential victims.
The Susquenita School District expressed being "deeply disturbed, alarmed, and saddened" by the arrest and emphasized their commitment to supporting their students during this time.