CRUM, W.VA. — The Wayne County Sheriff Drug Enforcement Unit arrested a Putnam County Schools Employee during a traffic stop in Crum.
Sheriff Thompson stated the Drug Enforcement Unit made a traffic stop after Virginia Priestley, 51, of Hurricane, drove around the cross guard at a railroad crossing on US RT 52.
During the stop Virginia gave criminal indicators. During a search Ms. Priestly removed something from her pocket and attempted to conceal it. She refused to comply and continued to resist. A baggie containing Marijuana was found in Virginia’s purse. A straw with white residue was also found on her person.
After arriving at the Sheriff’s Office a secondary search was conducted and a cellophane wrapper containing Crystal Methamphetamine fell from her clothing. After processing Virginia was transported to the Western Regional Jail.
Sheriff Thompson stated that Virginia is charged with Obstructing an officer, possession of a controlled substance, and felony methamphetamine possession.
A spokeswoman for Putnam County Schools refused comment to the Lazer earlier today saying the school system does not give out information concerning personnel. Other officials said she is a cook for Putnam Co. Schools.
The school system released the following this afternoon in response to WSAZ.com’s inquiry about an employee arrested on drug charges:
“…Administration became aware earlier today of the recent arrest of a service personnel employee and is currently working to gather additional information related to the charges,” stated PCS Communications & Events Coordinator Micah Osborne in an email. “However, as the media is aware, the personnel laws that govern school employees prevents the school system from addressing the current and/or future status of the employee. To respond any further could compromise the employee’s due process rights. Please know that the school system takes these allegations seriously and will continue to investigate the allegations and continue to monitor the legal proceedings, all while complying with the legal requirements that must be afforded to school employees.”
