UPDATE: After speaking with witnesses, deputies have charged James Barringer with additional charges of Felony Indecent Liberties with a Child.
A witness told authorities that in 1995 at an overnight church activity, Barringer assaulted a juvenile, claiming he sexually touched the victim.
Barringer was served with these new charges on Wednesday, he recieved a $25,000 bond and was placed in Rowan County Detention Center.
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ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — An 8th grade teacher in Rowan County faces possible termination following his arrest on sex charges involving children.Β
51-year-old James Barringer III is charged with six counts of indecent liberties with a child.
On Sunday, Rowan County Sheriff’s Office began investigating a complaint they received concerning inappropriate sexual activity by a person that was employed as a teacher at China Grove Middle School, and also served as a local Boy Scout Leader.Β
Investigators say the incidents occurred over the last two years.Β
Investigators say there is more than one victim but have not said where the suspected abuse took place. The victims were in the pre-teen age range. On Wednesday, Barringer was taken into custody. He is currently being held under a $100,000 secured bond.Β
A statement released by the Rowan-Salisbury School System late Wednesday said “The school system was shocked, appalled and very saddened to learn of the arrest and charges of James Barringer, III, an 8th grade math teacher, athletic director and coach at China Grove Middle School. The conduct with which he has been charged is deplorable and is grounds for immediate dismissal from the school system. The superintendent is taking immediate steps to investigate, in cooperation with law enforcement. Dr. Moody encourages anyone with potentially relevant information to contact the Rowan County Sheriff’s Department.”
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