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Two suspects in custody, linked to firearm found in Waynesboro student’s bookbag last month

Crystal Graham
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More than a month after a firearm was found in a Waynesboro elementary school student’s bookbag, two suspects are in police custody.

Christopher Richard Cook was arrested on Sunday in Albemarle County.

Crystal Monique Harris was located and taken into custody by the Waynesboro Police Department on Friday.

The incident occurred on Sept. 4 at William Perry Elementary School when a student reported that an adult she knew placed a gun in her bookbag. School staff and police confirmed there was a weapon on school property but said there was no threat to students or staff.

On the same day, Waynesboro Police reported that there were outstanding warrants for Cook related to the incident.


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Developing | Gun found in bookbag of Waynesboro student; police investigating


wpes christopher cook

Cook has been charged with:

  • 18.2-308.4 (Felony) – Unlawful possession of a controlled substance with knowledge and intent to possess a firearm
  • 18.2-308.2 (Felony) – Possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony
  • 18.2-250 (Felony) – Possession of a controlled substance
  • 18.2-56.2(Misdemeanor) – Reckless handling of a firearm to endanger life or limb of a child under 14
  • 18.2-371.1 (Felony) – Abuse and Neglect of Children

wpes crystal harris

Harris has been charged with:

  • 40.1-103 (Felony) – Child endangerment
  • 18.2-56.2 (Misdemeanor) – Reckless handling of a firearm to endanger life or limb of a child under 14

Cook is being held without bond at the Middle River Regional Jail. Harris was released on an unsecured bond, according to the WPD.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Dec. 1 for both suspects, according to online court records.


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Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is a reporter and ad manager for Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of "Virginia Tonight," a nightly TV news show, both broadcast on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television. You can reach her at [email protected]