Wise County school officials say they are fully cooperating with Virginia law enforcement as the search intensifies for Travis Turner, the Union High School football coach now wanted on multiple child pornography charges.
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Mike Goforth, Division Superintendent of Wise County Schools, told TMZ Sports the district will work closely with investigators following the latest update from the Virginia State Police.
"Wise County Public Schools is aware that law enforcement has filed charges against a staff member who has been on administrative leave," Goforth said. "The individual remains on leave and is not permitted on school property or to have contact with students."
The case took a stunning turn on Tuesday when Virginia State Police announced Turner, 46, is a wanted man. Authorities say the coach disappeared on November 20, right before Special Agents with the Bureau of Criminal Investigations arrived at his home in Appalachia.
Courtesy WCYB
"While in transit, the agents were informed that Turner was no longer at the location," VSP said in a statement.
Turner is wanted on five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. State police said additional charges are pending.
VSP has deployed drones, K9 units and other resources as they continue to search for Turner, who is now considered a fugitive.
Turner has coached Union High School since 2011. The Bears are undefeated at 12-0 and coming off a win over Graham High School. They are scheduled to face Ridgeview in the region final on Nov. 29.
Anyone with information on Turner's whereabouts is asked to contact Virginia State Police Division 4 at 276-484-9483.
