ASHLAND, Va. (WTVR) - Multiple law enforcement sources confirm tonight that Joe Perkins, an employee with the Ashland Police Department has been arrested for solicitation from a minor.
Perkins works in crime prevention and on the citizens task force.
Multiple sources confirm Perkins was arrested by Albemarle Police as part of Operation Blue Ridge Thunder, an internet crimes against children task force. Sources could not give the specifics of what led up to his arrest.
"We are stunned and deeply saddened by this incident,” Ashland Police Chief Doug Goodman said, in a statement to CBS 6. “Even though Mr. Perkins, a civilian employee of the police department, was not at work at the time of this incident, the Ashland police department has already taken every measure necessary to ensure the safety and integrity of our agency.
“Mr. Perkins is suspended from employment and we will cooperate fully with the authorities in Albemarle County,” said Chief Goodman.
Goodman said Perkins is suspended without pay.
According to court records, Perkins has been charged with two felonies and is currently out on bond.
