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Monday 8am - 4:30pm Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm Thursday 8am - 4:30pm Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office

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Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office

The Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office prosecutes all Felony and most Misdemeanor crimes that are committed within Tazewell County.

Our office strives to zealously prosecute criminal cases and deal with the citizens of Tazewell County in a fair and just manner. We endeavor to maintain and nurture positive working relationships with all Law Enforcement Officers and to conduct business in a positive and professional manner. Tazewell County Victim/Witness Assistance & V-Stop Programs:
Victim advocacy programs located within the C

ommonwealth's Attorney's Office, which help to ensure that crime victims receive fair and compassionate treatment while participating in the Criminal Justice System. Tazewell County Victim Witness Assistance:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tazewell-County-Victim-Witness-AssistanceV-Stop-Program/172312482809232?sk=timeline

Tazewell County V-STOP Program:
https://www.facebook.com/tazewellcountyVSTOP/timeline

05/05/2026

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT:
The Tazewell County Behavioral Health Court is seeking a dedicated and organized individual to serve as Coordinator for the Behavioral Health Court program. This role is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting individuals navigating the justice system while promoting access to behavioral health services. This position is grant-funded and will be an individual contractor position. If interested, you may email your resume' to [email protected] or drop off your resume' at the Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, or mail it to P.O. Box 946, Tazewell, VA 24651.
Tazewell County Behavioral Health Court

03/27/2026

THE COMMUNITY SPOKE and we listened!!

TAZEWELL COUNTY COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY’S IMPLEMENTS “SENIOR SHIELD TASK FORCE”

Chris Plaster, Commonwealth’s Attorney, is proud to announce that the Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office has created and is launching a Senior Shield Task Force. This task force is a collaborative initiative dedicated to protecting the county’s senior citizens from abuse, neglect, fraud, and exploitation.

The Senior Shield Task Force brings together key agencies and community partners to proactively address crimes and concerns affecting older adults. By strengthening coordination among law enforcement, social services, healthcare providers, and community organizations, the Task Force aims to ensure that Tazewell County’s senior population is safeguarded with vigilance, dignity, and respect.

“The citizens who built this community deserve to live their later years in safety and security,” said Commonwealth’s Attorney Chris Plaster. “The Senior Shield Task Force reflects our commitment to stand as a united front against those who would take advantage of our seniors, while also providing the resources and support they need.”

The Task Force includes representatives from: The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office, Adult Protective Services, local law enforcement agencies, healthcare and mental health professionals, Victim Witness Assistance Program, and community and advocacy organizations

The initiative will focus on:
- Investigating and prosecuting elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation
- Increasing public awareness and education
- Enhancing reporting mechanisms for suspected abuse
- Coordinating services for victims and their families
Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspected abuse or exploitation of seniors. By working together, Tazewell County can ensure that its elderly citizens are protected and valued.

Please follow the Senior Shield Task Force’s page at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576429344830

03/16/2026

🛑SCAM ALERT🛑

Many in our county have received this text message today stating there is an unpaid citation and to scan the QR code for payment.

DO NOT scan the code and enter any personal or payment information.

03/02/2026

TAZEWELL COUNTY COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY’S OFFICE AWARDED GRANT TO LAUNCH MENTAL HEALTH COURT

Chris Plaster, Commonwealth’s Attorney, is excited to announce that the Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office has been awarded a grant to develop and initiate a new Mental Health Court serving Tazewell County. This grant was awarded through the Supreme Court of Virginia’s Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) and the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). This important funding will support the development of a specialized court program designed to better address the needs of individuals in the criminal justice system who are living with serious mental illnesses.

The Mental Health Court docket will prioritize public safety and maintaining accountability while focusing on connecting eligible participants with community-based treatment, supervision, and support services. This program aims to reduce repeat offenders struggling with mental illness from cycling through the criminal justice system, improve long-term outcomes for participants, and strengthen the overall safety and well-being of the community.

“This grant and program represent more than funding, it represents hope for participants and their families,” said Chris Plaster, Commonwealth’s Attorney. “It is my belief that we are experiencing a mental health crisis in this country. A Mental Health Court docket will allow us to address the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior; while providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to lead stable and productive lives.”

Mental Health Court programs are problem-solving courts that bring together judges, prosecutors, defense counsel, law enforcement, treatment providers, and community partners to collaborate on tailored case management strategies. Participants who meet eligibility criteria will have the opportunity to engage in structured treatment plans, regular court appearances, and ongoing monitoring in lieu of traditional case processing. Participation in the Mental Health Court will be limited to eligible non-violent offenders, ensuring that the program focuses on individuals whose underlying mental health needs can be safely and effectively addressed through structured treatment and intensive supervision while maintaining public safety as the top priority.

The initiative reflects Chris Plaster’s continued commitment to enhancing public safety through innovative, evidence-based approaches. By addressing mental health needs early and effectively, the Mental Health Court docket is expected to reduce strain on local law enforcement, courts, and correctional resources, while improving outcomes for participants and their families.

Additional details about program eligibility and implementation timelines will be announced as planning progresses with a projected implementation date being in the fall of 2026.

01/09/2026

Today we proudly wear blue in support of Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. The Tazewell County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office thanks the dedicated men and women who serve and protect our communities every day. Your commitment, courage, and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. It is an honor to work along side each of you every day.

05/13/2025

Kati Asbury has been recognized as the Appalachian School of Law Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.

Our very own, Kati Asbury, was recognized on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the Appalachian School of Law Commencment Ceremony for her achievements and dedication to the citizens of Tazewell County, especially those juvenile victims of sexual assault.

Alumni Association President, Hugh Murray, spoke to those in attendance to highlight Kati’s efforts in prosecuting these difficult cases and presented her with a plaque commemorating her honor of being named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.

Congratulations to Kati Asbury and we are honored to have her as a part of our team serving the citizens of Tazewell County!

03/20/2025

FORMER TEACHER SENTENCED TO 193 YEARS FOR SOLICITING CHILD PO*******HY FROM A MINOR

J. Christopher Plaster, Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney, announced today that a former teacher with Tazewell County Public Schools, JOHN MICHAEL SHARPE, age 33, of Tazewell, VA, was sentenced today on 20 counts of enticing a child to perform in po*******hy with 19 of those counts being a second or subsequent offense. He received a total of 193 years to serve in the Virginia Department of Corrections. SHARPE was found guilty by a jury on March 22, 2024 and has been incarcerated since his conviction in the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority system.

"This case is still a tragedy. Not only is it a case involving the exploitation of a minor child, it is also a case of broken trust of the victim, her family, the school system, and the entire community. John Sharpe simply refuses to take responsibility for his actions and even claims his interactions with the child, are the fault of the victim. This is what makes John Sharpe dangerous and deserving of the time in prison he received today,” says Chris Plaster, Commonwealth’s Attorney.

This case was investigated by Detective Michelle Conklin of the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office. We would like to thank Sheriff Brian Hieatt and the entire Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication and hard work on this case. We also want to thank the Tazewell County Department of Social Services for their assistance. We want to recognize Tazewell County Public Schools for their cooperation in this investigation and also recognize all the important people who stepped up to advocate for this victim. Chris Plaster, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecuted this case with the assistance of his Assistants, Jessica Gunter and Brandon Goins.

02/14/2025

FORMER SOFTBALL COACH SENTENCED TO 40 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD

J. Christopher Plaster, Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney announced today that HOWARD DENVER “DENNY” BARTON, age 55, of Tazewell, Virginia was sentenced on January 13, 2025 in the Tazewell County Circuit Court by Judge Richard Patterson on 40 counts of taking indecent liberties of a child by a person in a custodial relationship. BARTON received 40 years to serve in the Virginia Department of Corrections.

BARTON previously admitted guilt to 40 counts of indecent liberties on August 19, 2024 and was held in custody at the Tazewell Regional Jail while awaiting his sentencing hearing. At BARTON’S sentencing hearing, Chris Plaster, Commonwealth’s Attorney presented evidence of BARTON’s grooming and predatory behavior that led to the eventual sexual abuse of a child. In addition, a victim impact statement was presented detailing the significant impact BARTON’S behaviors left on his child victim. Plaster argued for BARTON to receive the maximum amount of time in prison for his crimes.

“When we allow coaches access to our children, to help our children pursue their dreams, there is an understanding that our coaches are there to not only guide but protect our sons and daughters. But Denny Barton took advantage of that position of trust. He betrayed the trust of his victim, their family, and the trust of the community. This type of betrayal will never be tolerated in Tazewell County and I take my duty to protect all children of Tazewell County very seriously,” said Chris Plaster, Commonwealth’s Attorney.

The Tazewell County Sheriff's Office investigated the case with Det. Michelle Conklin leading the investigation, along with the assistance of Richlands Police Department. We want to extend recognition to Sheriff Brian Hieatt and the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office for their tireless efforts in investigating these crimes. The Tazewell County Victim/Witness Assistance Program provided crucial support throughout the process. April Morefield and the Care Center of Southwest Virginia and Ultra Health were instrumental in this conviction. Commonwealth's Attorney Chris Plaster prosecuted this case.

01/29/2025

Safer Internet Day is on Tuesday, February 11, 2025

To learn more about this initiative please visit Safer.ConnectSafely.org

01/15/2025

MAN TO SERVE LIFE IN PRISON FOR CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN

J. Christopher Plaster, Tazewell County Commonwealth's Attorney announced today that JACKIE LEE MCGLOTHLIN, age 47, of Raven, Virginia was sentenced on November 7, 2024 in the Tazewell County Circuit Court by Judge Richard Patterson on one (1) count of aggravated sexual battery of a child under the age of thirteen and one (1) count of r**e of a child under thirteen years of age and three (3) counts of forcible so**my of a child under thirteen and one (1) count of object sexual pe*******on of a child under thirteen. MCGLOTHLIN received FIVE LIFE terms plus an additional 20 years to serve in the Virginia Department of Corrections with no option for parole.

“I am grateful for the outcome and am proud of the courage and the bravery the victim in this case showed. I am also thankful to all of the agencies that helped bring this case to a close,” said Kati Asbury, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney.

The Tazewell County Sheriff's Office investigated the case with Det. Michelle Conklin leading the investigation. The Tazewell County Victim/Witness Assistance Program provided crucial support throughout the process. April Morefield and the Care Center of Southwest Virginia and Ultra Health were instrumental in this conviction. Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Kati Asbury, with the assistance of Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Gabrielle de Courcy, prosecuted this case.

Address

409 Main Street
Tazewell, VA
24651

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday	8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday	8am - 4:30pm
Thursday	8am - 4:30pm
Friday	8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

(276) 385-1240

Website

http://www.tazewellcounty.org/CA.html

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