Photo Credit: Breaking Through News (Iron Co Sheriff and deputies charged, Augusta Sheriff Donald Smith and convicted Human Trafficker Felix Chujoy
Written by: Sam Orlando
STAUNTON, VA - The recent arrest of Iron County, Missouri, Sheriff Jeff Burkett and two of his deputies for "criminal street gang activity" in a parental kidnapping plot marks a disturbing trend of law enforcement corruption. This case bears striking similarities to some of the allegations against Augusta County, Virginia, Sheriff Donald Smith, raising concerns about the potential consequences for the local community if Smith's activities are not thoroughly investigated.
Sheriff Burkett, along with Iron County deputies and a fourth individual, were accused of orchestrating a plot to help a friend kidnap his daughter after a dispute over a $50 bottle of liquor. The charges against Burkett include attempted kidnapping, lying to a 911 dispatcher, making a false report, and misusing the 911 system. All four men face similar charges, and prosecutors have labeled them as part of a "criminal street gang" due to their organization to commit the crimes.
The allegations against Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith share commonalities with the Burkett case. Smith is accused of lying to federal agents and a federal grand jury in 2016 to protect his "close friend," convicted human trafficker Felix Chujoy. Smith is also accused of hiding Chujoy from the VCIN computer network in 2019 to prevent his arrest following an indictment for meth distribution. Additionally, Smith allegedly lied under oath in September 2022 in Augusta Country General District Court in response to questions about his relationship with Chujoy. Furthermore, he reportedly helped Chujoy avoid jail time in 2013 following an arrest for felony sex solicitation of a child. Finally, and this is by no means an exhaustive list, Smith is alleged to have covered up an assault on local police auditors by deputies impersonating State Police Officers in 2022.
The situation in Iron County serves as a cautionary tale for Augusta County. A corrupt sheriff's office can have significant consequences for the community, and a lack of accountability can lead to further corruption and criminal activity. If the allegations against Sheriff Smith are not properly investigated, Augusta County could face similar issues as those unfolding in Iron County.
The risks to the community are not to be taken lightly. A sheriff's office marred by corruption can lead to a breakdown in public trust, potentially hampering the ability of law enforcement to maintain law and order. It can also result in innocent people being targeted or falsely accused, as well as criminals being protected by those in power.
As more corrupt police officers are being held accountable, such as in the Iron County case, it is crucial for the citizens of Augusta County to demand a thorough investigation into the allegations against Sheriff Donald Smith. The community must be proactive in ensuring that their law enforcement officers uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Failing to address these concerns could lead to a slippery slope, with Augusta County becoming another cautionary tale in the fight against police corruption.
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