Discovery of a rubber tourniquet, a lighter, empty syringes, and a metal spoon has led to drug paraphernalia charges being filed against a Wilkes County teacher.

Phillip Ray Bare

Phillip Raye Bare, age 35, is charged with a single count of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Wilkes Central reported to the sheriff’s office that there was an “incident involving a teacher and possible drug use.”

According to Wilkes County Sheriff Office’s Chief Deputy David Carson indicated that Deputy Dakota Becerra, a school resource officer (SRO) at Wilkes Central, then investigated the incident.

Bercerra’s report indicates that a rubber tourniquet, butane lighter, six empty syringes, and a metal spoon were found in Bare’s possession.

Wilkes School Superintendent Mark Byrd released a statement:

“Upon receipt of concerns, the administration of Wilkes Central High School contacted the Wilkes County Schools Human Resources Department and this situation was addressed immediately. Law enforcement was contacted. The employee in question is currently suspended without pay while the matter is investigated. The administration of Wilkes County Schools cooperates fully with law enforcement in the investigation of any allegations of misconduct against an employee of the Wilkes County Schools.”

Since August of 2018, Bare has taught at Wilkes Central High School. According to Bare’s LinkedIn profile, he has taught various math courses at Wilkes Community College since 2014.

Bare has been suspended without pay.

Teacher License Revocation Updates

In January, the following teachers voluntarily surrendered their teaching licenses or had their licenses revoked by the state: