Heated debate breaks out at Johnston County education meeting over embattled board member

Tensions were running high at the Johnston County Board of Education meeting on Tuesday night as people expressed both frustration and support for embattled school board member and suspended Smithfield police officer Ronald Johnson.

"Our teachers are doing great things, and our kids should be first. Every time we turn on the news, all we hear is Johnston County public school drama," said one person who identified herself as a parent in Johnston County and former educator. "We are sick of it."

Tuesday's public comment period centered around whether or not Johnson should be forced to give up his seat for violating school board policies.

He's accused of secretly recording board members on 10 occasions. There's also a claim he used his status to try to change the school assignment of two special education students.

"You are a bully, and Johnston County's Board of Education will not tolerate harassment or bullying in its education setting," said resident David Marshburn.

During the public comment period, Johnson, whose term isn't up until 2024, was seen chuckling.

Johnson rejected the board's demand last month when they censured him in a 6 to 1 vote.

"The greater weight is gonna be in your favor," he told the board in August. "I refuse to participate in what I believe is a witch hunt.”

The long-time Smithfield police detective has been on leave from his job since July while the department began an internal investigation. Currently, his is on leave from the police department without pay.

While many speakers threw daggers at Johnson, some spoke out to support him.

Last month the board turned to the Johnston County District Attorney for help in removing Johnson from office and review the investigation.

WRAL News has reached out ot the district attorney but she has not responded heard back.