Virginia high school football coach Travis L. Turner has been charged with multiple offenses related to child pornography. On November 21, 2025, the 46-year-old was charged with five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. Authorities have indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Turner was reported missing just a day after law enforcement officials visited his home in Appalachia, Virginia. Special agents from the Virginia State Police (VSP) Bureau of Criminal Investigation were attempting to locate him for questioning. Initially, they did not plan to make an arrest, with a statement emphasizing the priority of locating Turner safely.
Community Reactions to the Allegations
The allegations against Turner have deeply impacted the Union High School community, where he was well-known as a coach and mentor. Local residents have expressed their disbelief and sadness over the situation. A 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.”
Community discussions have also brought to light long-standing rumors regarding Turner’s alleged misconduct. Some social media posts have hinted that he may not be the only individual involved in such activities, although no further specifics have been confirmed.
The situation is not the first scandal to affect Union High School. Earlier 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. Turner and Meador held positions at the school simultaneously, although the nature of Meador’s coaching role has not been detailed.
Family and School Response
Turner’s wife, Leslie Caudill Turner, has publicly denied the allegations, stating, “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. I’m sorry.”
In response to the ongoing investigation, Wise County Public Schools has placed Turner on administrative leave. Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed that the school division is cooperating with law enforcement but refrained from making further comments due to the active legal matter.
Turner comes from a well-known football family in the region. His late father, Tom Turner, coached at Appalachia High School for 26 years, securing five state championships before his passing in 2006.
The unfolding situation continues to raise concerns within the local community, highlighting the intersection of trust, responsibility, and the serious nature of the allegations against individuals in positions of authority.