Covington Man Arrested on Child Exploitation Charge Following Joint Investigation by Alleghany County Authorities

COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – On February 17, 2026 the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office along with members of the Covington Division of Police and the Alleghany Regional Emergency Response Team arrested Mr. Richard Caldwell Jr of Covington, VA.

During an investigation, Caldwell was found to be in violation of Virginia Code 18.2-374.3, Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Certain Offenses Against Minors. The Sheriff’s Office is continuing to combat these types of crimes so that we can ensure the safety of our children in the Alleghany Highlands.

Parents and Guardians are encouraged to constantly monitor their children’s online activities, set parental controls and please report any suspicious communications to law enforcement immediately. Sheriff Kyle Moore wants you to know that we will not cease our diligent work in tracking down the sexual predators and that we will prosecute them relentlessly.

Caldwell is being held in the Alleghany County Regional Jail without bond.

This case remains under investigation. No further details will be released at this time.