FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 2025
Charlottesville Police Seize Firearms and Narcotics, Make Arrest Following Search Warrant Execution
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - On January 22, 2026, the Charlottesville Police Department, in coordination with the regional 3A Task Force, executed a search warrant related to narcotics distribution and illegal firearm possession in the 500 block of 12th Street NW within the City of Charlottesville.
As a result of the investigation and search, officers seized three firearms and approximately 51 grams of crack cocaine.
During the operation, Robert Nathaniel Tinsley Sr., a 63-year-old Charlottesville resident, was taken into custody without incident and charged with the following offenses:
- § 18.2-248 – Possession of a Schedule I/II Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute (Second Offense)
- § 18.2-308.2 – Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- § 18.2-308.4 – Possession of a Firearm While in Possession of a Schedule I/II Controlled Substance
Tinsley remains incarcerated at the Albemarle/Charlottesville Regional Jail. As with all criminal matters, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis emphasized the importance and risk associated with this work:
“Removing illegal firearms and dangerous narcotics from our streets is critical to keeping our community safe, and it is work that carries inherent risk for the officers involved,” said Chief Kochis. “This investigation highlights the importance of strong partnerships with our regional law enforcement agencies and community partners. Through continued collaboration, we are able to disrupt violent criminal activity and reduce the presence of weapons and drugs that threaten our Neighborhoods.”
Media Contact
Kyle Ervin
Public Safety Information Officer
City of Charlottesville
(434) 326-3043
ervinkl@charlottesville.gov