Bristol, Virginia, October 10, 2025
News Summary
The Bristol Police Department has charged two women, Jameeka Starks and Jasmin Solinsky, in separate child abuse cases. Starks faces charges of abuse and neglect while Solinsky was arrested for leaving her toddler unattended in a vehicle. The cases highlight growing concerns about child safety and the state’s efforts to support children in need of foster care.
Bristol, Virginia — The Bristol Police Department has announced charges against two women involved in separate child abuse cases that have raised significant concerns about child safety in the region. Jameeka Starks, 33, has been arrested for child abuse, neglect, and strangulation. She is being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority in Abingdon. In another incident, 24-year-old Jasmin Solinsky from Erwin has been charged for leaving her toddler unattended in a vehicle while she was gambling at a casino. Like Starks, Solinsky is also being held without bond at the same facility.
The case involving Starks involves serious allegations of physical violence and neglect. The details surrounding the case have not been fully released, but it has drawn attention from local law enforcement. In Solinsky’s case, a passerby noticed the child alone in the car and contacted security, leading to a police investigation. Fortunately, it has been reported that the toddler was unharmed during the incident.
April is recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, highlighting the importance of protective systems for families and vulnerable children. Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that one in seven children experiences child abuse or neglect. In Virginia, the statistics from 2022 reveal significant numbers related to child safety in Washington County and Bristol City. There were 1,553 reports of child abuse and neglect, with 932 of those cases investigated or evaluated for services. Out of these investigations, 89 cases were confirmed as instances of abuse or neglect, and 142 cases were identified as needing preventative services.
Currently, in the region, 150 children are in foster care, which represents a growing concern over the welfare of children in the community. The Department of Social Services (DSS) aims to maintain family unity rather than purely placing children in foster care. However, there are instances when authorities must take custody for the safety of the children. Due to a lack of immediate foster care options, some children have to remain in small visitation rooms equipped with toys and cots while waiting for placement, sometimes for days or weeks.
Recognizing the pressing need for better care environments for children awaiting foster placements, efforts are underway to establish an Isaiah 117 house in Washington County. This facility aims to create a welcoming space for children, allowing them to enter an accommodating environment instead of the often stark surroundings of a Department of Social Services office. Community engagement and support for foster families are essential, as there remains a continual need for foster placements within the area.
Residents and community members are encouraged to take action if they suspect a child is being abused or neglected. Reporting mechanisms such as the Virginia Mandated Reporter Portal and the Child Protective Services Hotline (800-552-7096) are available for concerned individuals to report their suspicions and help protect vulnerable children.
FAQs
What charges were filed against Jameeka Starks?
Jameeka Starks, 33, has been arrested and charged with abuse and neglect of a child as well as strangulation.
What led to the arrest of Jasmin Solinsky?
Jasmin Solinsky, 24, was arrested after leaving her toddler in a car while gambling at a casino in Virginia. A passerby noticed the unattended child and alerted security, who called the police.
What is the current situation regarding child abuse in Bristol City and Washington County?
In 2022, Washington County and Bristol City received 1,553 reports of child abuse and neglect. Out of these, 932 were investigated or assessed for services.
How many children are currently in foster care in the region?
Currently, 150 children are in foster care in the region.
Key Features of Child Abuse Cases in Bristol, Virginia
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incidents Reported | 1,553 reports of child abuse and neglect in 2022 |
| Investigated Cases | 932 cases investigated or assessed for services |
| Founded Cases | 89 founded cases of abuse and neglect |
| Children in Foster Care | 150 children currently in foster care |
| Community Action | Need for foster families and awareness in prevention |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bristol Residents Celebrate Recovery Program Graduations
Bristol Recovery Court Celebrates Graduates’ Redemption
Tragic Losses Impact Bristol Community
Pastor Faces Charges for Failing to Report Child Abuse
Bristol, Virginia Enhances Public Safety with New Initiatives
Bristol Woman Arrested for Possessing Illegal Drugs
California Parole Board Denies Parole for Lyle Menendez
FBI Cracks Major Child Exploitation Ring
Abingdon and Bristol Highlight Local Arts and Community Events
California Couple Under Investigation for Child Abuse and Surrogacy Scam
Additional Resources
- WCYB News
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- WCYB News
- Google Search: Child Abuse Prevention Month
- CBS 4 Local
- Google Scholar: Child Neglect
- WJHL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Safety
- WJHL News
- Google News: Virginia Child Abuse Cases
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
