IOW sheriff’s deputy investigated for child pornography
Published 4:26 pm Tuesday, September 20, 2011
ISLE OF WIGHT—Virginia State Police are investigating a deputy with the Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Department for suspicion of Internet child pornography.
Sheriff C.W. “Charlie” Phelps asked the High Tech Crimes unit to investigate, according to State Police spokeswoman Michelle Anaya.
Phelps could not be reached for comment. The deputy was not identified.
Search warrants were issued and served, but no arrest was made, Anaya said.
This investigation is ongoing and further information will be released when it’s completed.
The office has been plagued with troubles. In May, Capt. Paul Phelps, who is Charlie Phelps’ son, was indicted for allegedly allowing convicted felon Jonathan Burns to use a stun gun while volunteering for the sheriff’s office. The younger Phelps was placed on limited administrative duties. He has a jury trial scheduled for Dec. 6 in Isle of Wight.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Wayne Farmer recently questioned Paul Phelps’ credibility as a witness after a search of a Smithfield residence because of his “limited administrative duties.” Farmer said he would no longer use Phelps to testify in any cases. He is now on paid administrative leave.