Students, parents raise voices in support of Johnston school officer

The firing of a school resource officer in Johnston County prompted a flurry of support Tuesday.

Sheriff Steve Bizzell said Todd Fair, 40, a school resource officer at West Johnston High School, admitted to sending "inappropriate photographs of himself" to a student.

"This is completely out of the blue. Nobody expected this of him," said David Peddersen, a senior at the school.

Former student Michael Wells said, "I would have to see proof. It does not seem like Fair at all."

It's unclear when the photos were sent.

Bizzell said he has submitted the matter to the district attorney for investigation and a determination of possible criminal charges.

Fair, who was hired in September 2000, "engaged in inappropriate conduct and conduct unbecoming of a law enforcement officer," according to the sheriff's office.

"I don't believe this. I don't believe any of this," Peddersen said.

Maddie Calzaretta, a parent of a student at West Johnston, called Fair a "great man."

"He was always there in any aspect you needed him, and I just can't believe it," she said.