Crime/Court
Front Royal Man Charged with Two Counts of Forcible Sodomy Following RSW Regional Jail Investigation
Warren County Sheriff’s Office says the alleged assault occurred October 8 and involved two inmates. The suspect is being held without bond.
A Front Royal man has been charged with two counts of forcible sodomy following an investigation into a reported sexual assault involving inmates at the Rappahannock Shenandoah Warren (RSW) Regional Jail.
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as James Christopher Tewalt II of Front Royal. He faces two charges under Virginia Code § 18.2-67.1.
JAMES CHRISTOPHER TEWALT
According to the Sheriff’s Office, jail officials reported the alleged assault on October 8, 2026. Investigators determined that the incident reportedly occurred that morning and involved two inmates housed at the facility.
Following the investigation, authorities obtained warrants charging Tewalt with two counts of forcible sodomy. Authorities served the warrants on October 15.
Tewalt later appeared before a magistrate, who ordered him held without bond on the charges.
His next court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 10 a.m. in Warren County General District Court.
RSW Regional Jail officials have implemented protective measures for the alleged victim, including separating the housing assignments of the individuals involved.
The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active and that it is withholding additional details to protect the victim’s privacy and preserve the integrity of the investigation.
Authorities said they may release more information when appropriate and consistent with applicable law.
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office also thanked RSW Regional Jail personnel for their cooperation throughout the investigation.
Anyone with media inquiries regarding the case may contact Criminal Investigations Sergeant C.J. McDaniel at 540-635-7100 or cmcdaniel@warrencountysheriff.org.
The charges against Tewalt are allegations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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