NEW HANOVER COUNTY — Superintendent Tim Markley has initiated dismissal proceedings for Michael Earl Kelly, the Isaac Bear school teacher now facing child pornography charges involving a student at his school.
Kelly was arrested Tuesday, Feb. 6, on several charges of indecent liberties with a minor and one charge of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, which refers to those in possession of child pornography. Initially, after his arrest was announced, New Hanover County School Spokeswoman Valita Quattlebaum said Kelly was on paid leave.
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During his court appearance today, prosecutors told the court they would likely bring even more severe charges against Kelly, including first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, which refers to directly producing or assisting in the production of child pornography.
According to a release from Quattlebaum, Kelly’s current status is suspended without pay, while school administrators prepare the appropriate proceedings to fire him.
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