Skyline Drug Task Force's Sudden Dissolution: What We Know and Don't Know

Written by: Sam Orlando

Introduction: The Sudden Announcement

In a surprising turn of events that has left law enforcement agencies and local communities in a state of bewilderment, the Virginia State Police announced this week that the Skyline Drug and Gang Task Force will be dissolved effective September 30, 2023. The Task Force, a multi-jurisdictional unit, comprises members from the Augusta County Sheriff's Office, City of Staunton Police Department, and the Virginia State Police.

What We Know: Official Statements

Corinne Geller, the public relations director for the Virginia State Police, confirmed the dissolution of the Task Force. She went on to assure that the Drug Enforcement Section of the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Appomattox Field Office will continue to "work with our local public safety partners to aggressively pursue illegal drug and gang activity within the region."

We know that Nelson County and the City of Waynesboro pulled out of the Task Force before the State Police dissolved it. We do not know why.

What We Don't Know: The Rumor Mill

The real kicker here is what wasn't said. While the announcement was clear, the reason behind the dissolution remains shrouded in mystery. This has led to a flurry of rumors and conjecture, with many wondering whether state or federal investigations into potential improprieties within the Augusta County government and its Sheriff’s Office could be at play.

Impact on Local Law Enforcement: Unanswered Questions

We reached out to the Augusta County Sheriff's Office and the Staunton Police Department for comments on the impact this dissolution will have on local drug and gang investigations and enforcement activities. As of now, their responses remain pending, further fueling questions and uncertainties.

The Road Ahead: What's Next?

While official statements make it clear that law enforcement will continue to combat drug and gang activities, the dissolution of the Skyline Drug and Gang Task Force is likely to have repercussions that are yet unknown. Its sudden disbandment raises several questions—questions that remain unanswered as the community looks ahead with both anticipation and apprehension.

There you have it. As the saying goes, where there’s smoke, there's fire. But for now, we’re all just fumbling in the dark, waiting for someone to switch the light on.