McCary to head Blue Ridge investigation

By Lynn Hotaling

Superintendent Mack McCary will conduct the investigation with the assistance of Asheville attorney Chris Campbell, who will be paid $150 per hour for his services. Campbell is a member of the law firm Roberts and Stevens, specialists in school law, McCary said.

The decision to launch the investigation came at the July 25 meeting of the Jackson County Board of Education.

"I think it's extremely important that I become knowledgable and be able to make recommendations to you with regard to the charges and events at Blue Ridge School," McCary told school board members.

Joe Brooks, former Blue Ridge teacher, coach and athletic director, pleaded guilty July 26 to eight felony and three misdemeanor charges that involve Blue Ridge students. He was dismissed from his duties at the school July 25. (See related story on page 1A.)

Also indicted are former deputy and school resource officer Robbie Hess and 2001 graduate and basketball standout Jeremy Stewart. Some incidents of sexual activity between students are alleged to have occurred during school hours and to have been facilitated by Brooks and Hess.

The school system delayed its investigation in deference to the Sheriff's Department, McCary said, and he expects evidence gathered by the sheriff to be the foundation in establishing what happened. The fact that Brooks pleaded guilty last week makes his investigation simpler, McCary said.

"Joe's admission confirms the factual basis of the allegations," the superintendent said.

During the investigation, he will review all procedures at Blue Ridge to see if "there is anything we can do better to keep kids safe. Our most important obligation is to keep kids safe," McCary said.

Campbell's role in the investigation will be that of an advisor as McCary reviews evidence, the superintendent said.

"If any recommendations need to be made to the board, (Campbell's) there to assist me in answering questions," McCary said. "It's a cleaner role than if (school board attorney) Paul (Holt) helped. Paul needs to act independently as board counsel, and he can't do that and advise me at the same time."

Holt also explained the reasoning behind retaining Campbell for the investigation.

"I represent the Board of Education, not Dr. McCary. Should he find a person that needs to be expelled or terminated, I represent the board,˛ Holt said. "(McCary) would be the person Œbringing charges,' so he has to have a second attorney. I can't represent both sides."

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