Suspended New Hanover DSS director to retire

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County’s suspended social services director has announced his retirement.

This afternoon LaVaughn Nesmith submitted his notice to retire effective April 1, the county announced in a news release. The county also said his administrative leave pay will end Tuesday.

Earlier this week the StarNews reported Nesmith would remain on a suspension that began in February shortly after Nesmith returned from medical leave. No reason has been given for his suspension.

The StarNews reported Tuesday that the county’s Board of Social Services adopted a resolution to postpone a decision on Nesmith’s future until the human resources department could complete its investigation.

Michelle Winstead has been serving as interim director.