GREENBRIER COUNTY, W.Va. – The Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Office issued a press release after the conviction of former Deputy Sheriff Christopher W. Bennett.
According to the press release, the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) said the case profoundly impacted the community, and that they are committed to transparency, accountability and justice.
The investigation into Bennett started in December 2023 by the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources into allegations of sexual assault and abuse. The GCSO said Bennett was placed on administrative leave after learning of the allegations, to ensure the integrity of the investigation and the safety of the community. The GCSO launched an internal investigation, which led to Bennett’s resignation from the Sheriff’s Office in January 2024.
The investigation ended in criminal charges against Bennett, the GCSO said.
On January 3, Bennett entered a guilty plea to charges of first-degree sexual abuse.
The GCSO said Bennett’s actions violate the principles of integrity, trust, and service that the office holds as its highest values. A statement from the GCSO can be found below.
The actions of Christopher W. Bennett are reprehensible and do not reflect the values of the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Office or the dedicated deputies who serve this community with honor and professionalism every day. We will not tolerate that behavior in Greenbrier County. Our thoughts remain with the victim and their family, and we extend our deepest sympathies during this difficult time. The safety and well-being of our citizens are our utmost priority, and we remain committed to ensuring accountability at all levels.
The GCSO said they are reviewing internal policies and procedures so future incidents are prevented, and additional training and oversight measures are being implemented to reinforce the ethical standards expected of GCSO personnel.
Copyright 2025 WVVA. All rights reserved.