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An individual claiming to be one of the victims of Travis Turner, a former Union High School football coach in Big Gap, Virginia, expressed feeling blamed during the grooming process. This sense of being “the problem” was a significant part of the victim’s experience under the accused child predator.
Turner is currently facing multiple charges, including five counts of soliciting a minor via electronic means and possessing child pornography, as previously detailed by CrimeOnline.
A victim, whose account was shared through a letter read by Stephen Murray, a resident of Wise County, expressed gratitude for the swift and professional response of a different administrator who ensured that the authorities were immediately informed.
During a meeting of the Wise County School Board on Monday, Murray presented the letter, highlighting community concerns about the handling of Turner’s case.
Additionally, Murray shared a compilation of Wise County school employees who have faced sexual misconduct charges since 2020, emphasizing a troubling pattern within the school district.
He also read a list of Wise County school employees who have been charged with sexual allegations since 2020, including:
- Dalton Bates (2020): Central High School (band director)
- Timothy Lee Meador (2023): Union High School
- Tyler J. Tibbs (2025): Coeburn Middle School
“This is just the cases that have been reported and charged,” Murray stated. “When there is this much abuse, it’s not just a few bad apples. It is a culture. The fish rots from the head down.”
Another resident, Page Wagner, said Turner’s alleged victim was questioned by the Union High School principal without notifying her parents or police.
Others in attendance complained about the school board’s lack of transparency.
Prior to the meeting, School Superintendent Mike Goforth declined to say whether Turner was still employed at the school.
Meanwhile, the search for Turner continues.
Turner left into a wooded area near the residence in Appalachia, on November 20, shortly before authorities arrived at his home for questioning.
The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a “reward of up to $5,000 for information” that leads to his whereabouts.
Turner has since been removed from the staff member website at the high school.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Virginia State Police Division 4 at 276-484-9483 or send an email questions@vsp.virginia.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo via Instagram]