January 10, 2024, News Release

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – On January 9, 2023, Chief Michael Kochis, his staff, and Commonwealth Attorney Joe Platania met with Charlottesville School Superintendent Royal Gurley and his staff to discuss an alleged incident that occurred at Charlottesville City Schools (CCS) within the last year. This incident and the schools response was initially brought to law enforcement attention as a result of an interview, which aired on WINA.

As a result of this interview, The Commonwealth Attorney, and Chief of Police sent correspondence to CCS advising our interpretation of the Virginia State Code and the reporting requirements within. Shortly after receiving the correspondence, a meeting was scheduled.

During this meeting, school staff shared details of the alleged incident with law enforcement. As a result of receiving these details, Chief Kochis and Commonwealth Attorney Platania agreed that CCS handled the alleged incident appropriately within the confines of the law.

The Charlottesville Police Department and Commonwealth Attorney’s Office will not discuss any details of the alleged incident, as it involves juveniles.

We sincerely appreciate the continued partnership between CCS and law enforcement as we work diligently to ensure the safety of our children.