Robeson County deputies arrested a Pembroke teacher and foster parent on multiple child sex offenses Saturday.
Paul Nelson Locklear, 53, was arrested in Columbus County by Robeson investigators. The RCSO did not say where he was taken into custody.
Nelson is being held under $2 million bond, charged with sexual activity by a substitute parent and attempted sexual activity; three counts of indecent liberties with a minor; child sex abuse; nine counts of indecent liberties with a minor; and four counts of misdemeanor sexual battery.
The RCSO said the investigation began in 2024 when a foster child ran away from Locklear’s home and made contact with deputies. The juvenile described multiple alleged sex acts by Locklear, and helped identify other victims dating back to 2022.
The RCSO Juvenile Division is investigating the case. Assisting in the investigation were the Robeson District Attorney’s Office, FBI, and Columbus County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information about the investigation is asked to call 910.671.3170.
Nelson retired from the Robeson County schools and until recently was a teacher with the Darlington County (S.C.) Public Schools.
