Paul Nelson Locklear, a 53-year-old teacher from Darlington County, has been arrested and is facing multiple charges related to child sex crimes. The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office arrested Locklear after receiving information that led to allegations of unlawful sexual activity and the discovery of additional victims. These allegations date back to 2022.
According to the sheriff’s office, Locklear is charged with one count of sexual activity by a substitute parent, one count of attempted sexual activity by a substitute parent, three counts of indecent liberties with a minor, one count of child abuse sexual act, nine counts of crimes against nature, and four counts of misdemeanor sexual battery.
Former Principal and Teacher Arrested on Multiple Child Sex Crime Charges in Darlington County
Locklear had a long career in education, having retired as a principal in the Public Schools of Robeson County after nearly 20 years. He also worked as a foster parent and became a teacher in Darlington County in 2021. The investigation began in August when a juvenile he was fostering contacted authorities after running away. This led to the discovery of additional alleged victims, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Darlington County Public Schools district terminated Locklear’s employment at Darlington Middle School after learning of the charges. School district spokeswoman Audrey Childers confirmed that the district was cooperating fully with the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies involved in the case. Locklear is no longer employed by the district.
In addition to the local law enforcement, multiple agencies are working on the case, including the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office juvenile division, the Robeson County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to uncover more details.
Locklear is currently being held at the Robeson County Detention Center with a bond set at $2 million. His arrest has raised serious concerns within the community, and authorities are continuing their efforts to identify and support any additional victims.
