Am alleged victim of accused child predator Travis Turner says she felt like she had been “the problem” while being groomed by Big Gap’s Union High School football coach, in Virginia.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, Turner is facing five counts each of soliciting a minor via computer, along with child pornography possession.
“I am a victim of exploitation by a teacher in this county. Thankfully, under a different administrator my situation was handled promptly and professionally by immediately notifying the appropriate authorities,” the victim’s letter, read by Wise County resident Stephen Murray, stated, according to Kingsport Times News.
“I felt like I was the problem. I felt like I had embarrassed the school, damaged the reputation of the coaching staff and disrupted something I was supposed to protect instead of myself.”
Murray read the letter Monday during a Wise County School Board meeting over concerns on how the case has been handled.
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.
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast.
[Feature Photo via Instagram]