Written by: Sam Orlando
AUGUSTA COUNTY, VIRGINIA – A Facebook post by the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office asking for help in locating 16-year-old Carlos Elvir Antunez has ignited public outrage, with commenters raising concerns about the department’s framing of the case and allegations of abuse.
The Sheriff’s Office described Carlos as a runaway, but in a surprising twist, Carlos himself commented on the post, contradicting the narrative. He stated that he wasn't missing, and that he had proof of his abuse allegations.
Carlos later posted his Instagram handle on the Sheriff's Facebook post announcing he was missing.
Carlos’s comments, along with allegations of abuse from those close to him, have left many in the community questioning why law enforcement isn’t prioritizing his safety.
Community Pushback: A Cry for Justice
The Sheriff’s Facebook post received an outpouring of comments, many calling for an investigation into Carlos’s allegations of abuse rather than focusing on returning him to his home.
“Alot of ‘runaways’ don’t run away from homes they feel safe in,” commented Hailey Nichoel, echoing sentiments shared by many others. Nikki Smallwood wrote, “When are they going to do something about the situation this child is in and stop posting him missing and a runaway when he removes himself from the situation?”
Lisa Melendez’s comment painted a chilling picture of Carlos’s situation. “Would you take being beat with cords and cut with a knife and your hand put on the stove and then be told you’re a disappointment, etc., or run when you get a chance?” she wrote. “I know the boy, and he is a good boy—he just needs to be shown love and to be lifted up.”
Others, like Alicia Harlow, demanded that law enforcement take Carlos’s claims seriously. “Maybe someone needs to go talk to him,” she wrote. “He says he has proof, so maybe charges need to be placed on those responsible.”
A Case Complicated by Sheriff Donald Smith’s History
This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Sheriff Donald Smith’s troubled leadership, which has been marked by allegations of negligence, misconduct, and preferential treatment.
In one high-profile incident, Sheriff Smith maintained a close personal relationship with Felix Chujoy, a convicted human trafficker and child sex offender. According to public records, Smith assisted Chujoy in several ways, including allowing him to use a Sheriff’s vehicle and accepting jailhouse calls.
Smith’s decision not to participate in a human trafficking task force—one with a near-perfect conviction rate—has also fueled criticism of his leadership. Some have questioned whether his relationship with Chujoy influenced his refusal.
Reports of violent behavior by deputies, mishandling of evidence, and allegations of racial bias have further deepened public distrust of the Sheriff’s Office.
A Turning Point for the Community
In Carlos’s case, the Sheriff’s Office has yet to publicly address his claims of abuse or his comments on their own Facebook post. This silence has sparked growing frustration among commenters.
“He left an abusive situation—physical and mental—and he talked to cops and CPS,” wrote Kristin Silverio. “Not sure why they still have him as a runaway. If something happens to this boy, I hope ACSO and Valley Social Services are ready for the repercussions.”
Others like Lorena Stauffer reflected on their own experiences, empathizing with Carlos. “I was that runaway, running from a lot when I was a kid,” she wrote. “Be strong and know that people believe you.”
For many, this case is emblematic of deeper systemic issues within Augusta County law enforcement. As one commenter put it, “If he says he’s not safe at home, why isn’t that the first thing they’re looking into?”
A Pivotal Test for Sheriff Smith
The case of Carlos Elvir Antunez presents a critical moment for Sheriff Donald Smith and his office. The community is demanding action, accountability, and transparency—not just for Carlos, but for the integrity of the Sheriff’s Office itself.
Will the department address Carlos’s allegations and prioritize his safety, or will this become yet another example of systemic failure under Smith’s leadership?
Breaking Through News will continue to monitor this developing story. If you know Carlos or have information concerning his safety or whereabouts, please email sam@breakingthrough.com.
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