Fugitive Virginia High School Coach Faces Child Pornography Charges, Missing Amid Investigation
Authorities have issued warrants for a Virginia high school football coach, Travis L. Turner, who disappeared as he faced allegations related to child pornography. The unsettling development has left the local community in shock and heightened concerns around child safety.
Why It Matters
This situation raises critical questions about the safety of minors within educational settings. As an ongoing investigation unfolds, the implications of Turner’s allegations may extend beyond personal accountability, potentially stirring a broader dialogue about scrutiny within school staff and their responsibilities.
Key Developments
- Charges Filed: Authorities have secured 10 warrants against Turner, including five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
- Disappearance Details: Turner was reported missing on November 21, 2025, shortly before police were to question him about the investigation.
- School Actions: Union High School removed Turner’s profile from its staff directory, with only his son listed under the surname "Turner."
- Expected Police Activity: An extensive search involving drones and K-9 units has been initiated across Wise County to locate Turner.
- School District’s Statement: Wise County Public Schools placed Turner on administrative leave pending an external review, although details regarding the allegation remain undisclosed.
Full Report
Investigation Background
Turner’s case emerged when he was identified as a subject of a child pornography probe. Authorities were en route to his home when he went missing. The Virginia State Police had visited his residence just a day prior to speak with him but had no intention of making an arrest during that visit.
Allegations and Family Response
In the wake of the allegations, Turner’s wife, Leslie Caudill Turner, publicly defended her husband, asserting his innocence and expressing a desire for him to return home. She emphasized her husband’s character, insisting that he is a good father and husband.
School’s Methodology
The actions taken by Wise County Public Schools, including placing Turner on leave and removing his profile from the website, signify a standard protocol in such serious allegations. However, Superintendent Mike Goforth reiterated that this does not imply guilt, merely that an external agency is involved in the evaluation.
Community Reaction
The Big Stone Gap community, which includes Union High School, has expressed shock at the rapid developments. The scrubbing of Turner’s profile during a season marked by his team’s success underscores the broader impact of such allegations on public trust.
Context & Previous Events
This incident is not the first to involve troubling allegations at Union High School. In 2023, a separate case involving a teacher and coach from the same school culminated in a guilty plea for indecent liberties with a child. These occurrences have sparked concern regarding the vetting processes for school employees and the protective measures needed to ensure student safety in educational environments.
Anyone with information about Turner’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Virginia State Police at (276) 228-3131.
