Bristol, Virginia, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The Bristol, Virginia Police Department has charged Jameeka Starks, 33, with serious offenses including abuse and neglect of a child and strangulation. Following her arrest on October 8, she is currently held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority. The case emphasizes the urgent need for specialized training in handling child abuse situations, prompting the department to create a Special Victims detective position to focus on safeguarding vulnerable minors and supporting trauma victims.
Bristol, Virginia
The Bristol, Virginia Police Department has charged a woman in connection with an ongoing child abuse case. The accused, 33-year-old Jameeka Starks from Bristol, Virginia, faced charges of abuse and neglect of a child and strangulation.
Starks was arrested on October 8 by Special Victims Detective Chris Cappetta.
Currently, she is being held at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority in Abingdon and is without bond.
The child involved is thirteen years old. Chief D. Byron Ashbrook has emphasized the seriousness of the charges facing Starks and stressed the importance of specialized training and resources in handling cases involving child abuse.
In response to rising concerns regarding the safety of minors, the Police Department has appointed a Special Victims detective position. This initiative aims to better focus on safeguarding children and support victims of trauma.
Details of the Charges
Starks faces significant charges related to the welfare of a minor. The allegations of abuse and neglect carry severe implications, highlighting the ongoing issues of child safety in the community. The procedure of the arrest, handled by Detective Cappetta, reflects an active approach by local law enforcement in managing sensitive cases of this nature.
Law Enforcement Response
Chief Ashbrook’s comments underline the department’s commitment to improve their response to child abuse cases. By appointing a Special Victims detective, the Bristol Police Department aims to ensure a focused approach to protecting children and providing necessary resources for victims. This is an essential step in addressing the alarming trends of child abuse in local settings.
Context of Child Abuse in Virginia
Child abuse remains a critical issue for communities across Virginia. The Bristol situation serves as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in protecting vulnerable individuals. Efforts to enhance training and resources demonstrate a proactive stance toward mitigating risks and supporting impacted families. Virginia, like many states, is continually evolving its strategies to tackle child abuse effectively, aiming for the best outcomes for victims.
FAQ
What charges has Jameeka Starks faced?
Jameeka Starks has been charged with abuse and neglect of a child and strangulation.
What is the age of the child involved?
The child involved is thirteen years old.
Where is Jameeka Starks currently being held?
Jameeka Starks is being held at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority in Abingdon.
What steps has the Police Department taken regarding child abuse cases?
The Police Department has appointed a Special Victims detective position to focus on safeguarding children and supporting victims of trauma.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused | Jameeka Starks |
| Charges | Abuse and neglect of a child, strangulation |
| Age of Child | 13 years old |
| Date of Arrest | October 8 |
| Current Holding | Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority |
| Bond Status | No bond |
| Police Department Initiatives | Appointment of Special Victims detective |
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Additional Resources
- WCYB News, Bristol VA Woman Arrested
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- WJHL News, Bristol VA Woman Charged
- Google Search: Bristol Virginia Child Abuse Case
- WXBQ News, Ongoing Child Abuse Case
- Google Scholar: Child Abuse Virginia
- Herald Courier, Local Crime and Courts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Neglect
- CBS4 Local, Mother Accused Case
- Google News: Virginia Child Abuse
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.
