Authorities have charged Virginia high school football coach Travis L. Turner with multiple counts related to child pornography. On November 21, 2025, Turner was formally charged with five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. The investigation began after long-standing rumors surrounding Turner prompted law enforcement to act, according to the Virginia State Police (VSP).
Turner, aged 46, was reported missing the same day authorities sought to speak with him at his home in Appalachia, Virginia. VSP special agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Wytheville Field Office were unable to locate him during their visit. Initially, the intention was not to arrest him but to gather information. “VSP’s main priority is locating Turner safely,” the department stated.
The allegations have sent shockwaves through the Union High School community. Many residents expressed disbelief and sadness over the unfolding events. One former student remarked, “Our community is hurting right now. Many of us grew up with Travis Turner as a coach, a mentor, or a familiar face at school events. What has recently happened is devastating and has broken the trust we had in someone who held a position of responsibility and influence.”
Social media has illuminated a history of rumors regarding Turner’s alleged misconduct, with some residents suggesting that additional individuals may be implicated in similar crimes. This is not the first time the school has faced such serious allegations. In 2023, former teacher and coach Timothy Lee Meador pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent liberties with a child, serving just over a year in prison. Both Meador and Turner were employed at Union High School during the same period, although Meador’s specific coaching role was not detailed.
Meanwhile, Turner’s wife, Leslie Caudill Turner, has publicly denied the accusations. In an interview with The Daily Mail, she stated, “None of that is true. He’s a good dad and a good husband, and we want him home. That’s it. I don’t know anything.”
Wise County Public Schools confirmed that Turner has been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation. Superintendent Mike Goforth stated that the division will continue to cooperate with law enforcement but refrained from commenting further due to the ongoing legal matter.
Turner hails from a well-known football family in the area. His late father, Tom Turner, coached at Appalachia High School for 26 years, leading his teams to five state championships before his passing in 2006.
As the community grapples with these serious allegations, the investigation remains active. Authorities have indicated that additional charges may follow as they continue to gather evidence. The unfolding situation has left many in the community searching for answers and reassessing their trust in local figures.
