Union County volunteer with criminal history is hired despite background check

Union County, NC public schools are likely to make a change for the better, with probable background checks for school volunteers on the horizon due to a recent volunteer with a criminal record.

School spokeswoman Luan Ingram said school officials checked the background of 43-year-old Antonio Massey before he took his position as a volunteer football coach for eighth graders at Parkwood Middle School.

The background check did its job, and turned up a robbery conviction, but it was overlooked by the school, and Massey was allowed to volunteer as head coach.

Massey was suspended from his coaching job after a worried parent sent an anonymous e-mail, tipping off school officials to his record.

"It was a mistake, and we're taking steps right now to make sure things like this don't happen here again," Ingram said.

Lori Linthicum, whose son is on his football team said "I don't appreciate him coaching my kid, because my son was on his team. I can't believe this got past the school system".

Superintendent Ed Davis is considering several changes. He'll review the criteria regarding what specific crimes prevent an applicant from being hired for paid and volunteer positions.

School officials will also review how far back a criminal record should be relevant when it comes to hiring. They said that policy review will begin immediately.

According to a poll published on the WSOCTV website, the majority of people surveyed still believe that volunteers should be given a chance, depending on the nature of the crime when working with children.


Should someone with a criminal background be allowed to work with children?
Choice Percentage of 86 Votes:

• Yes 8%
• No 33%
• Depends on the crime 50%
• Depends on how long ago the conviction was 9%