A former Wake County Public Schools teacher who worked with special education students is now facing abuse charges related to two former students.

JAMES RENCHER

Name: James Rencher, III
Age: 58
Charge(s): 12 counts of assault on an individual with a disability (Class A1 Misdemeanor)
Charge Type(s): (View Sentencing Chart)
Arrest Date: Turned himself in on 6-28-24
Bond Details: $100,000, secured. Bonded out.

Victim /Case Details: 

The Wake County Sheriff’s Office investigated after receiving information possible abuse had happened to two special education students in 2022 at East Wake High School.

The alleged victims are Justin Hemphill and Christian King, Both boys were non-verbal special education students.

See the warrant for specific details of the alleged abuse.

District: Wake County Public Schools
Current Role: None – resigned.
History: Nov. 2022 – April 2024 Herbert Akins Middle School.
Employment status: Resigned when the district began investigating him for abuse.

Statement from District: 

WCPSS is aware of the criminal charges that have been filed against former employee, James Rencher, and the school system has cooperated fully with law enforcement’s investigation.

NC Teacher License Information: 

License Number: 1221519
Name: Rencher , James III
License Type: Educator
License Status: Current
Expiration Date: 06/30/2024
Effective Date: 07/01/2021
License Area(s): Exceptional Children: Adapted Curriculum (K-12)