Greenville police have begun serving a search warrant at the residence of Kurt Garner, a suspended soccer coach at J.H. Rose High School in Pitt County. The warrant was executed early Wednesday morning at a home on Blackjack Simpson Road, which has been under police surveillance for several hours.
Garner, who also teaches business in the district’s career and technical education program, was placed on administrative leave on Monday while the school district reviews a personnel matter. He has been part of the school system since 2004 and was recently honored as a WITN Teacher of the Week.
The investigation, being conducted by the Greenville Police Department, focuses on alleged misconduct by a staff member at the school. A police spokesperson confirmed the criminal investigation but declined to provide further details.
The timing of the search coincides with the school’s soccer team securing a state playoff victory over White Oak High School the previous night, drawing additional community attention to the case.
Community Reaction
Parents and alumni have taken to social media to voice concern, urging transparency as the investigation proceeds. Local officials have reminded residents that due process must be observed and that no conclusions should be drawn before the process concludes.
Authorities have indicated that the search warrant was obtained based on credible information, though the exact nature of the allegations remains undisclosed. Police have asked anyone with relevant information to come forward.