(The Center Square) – Gov. Glenn Youngkin has ordered the Virginia State Police to launch a full criminal investigation into allegations that Fairfax County school officials arranged and paid for student abortions without parental consent.
The governor’s office announced the investigation in a press release on Wednesday and cited concerns about potential misuse of public funds and violations of state law. Virginia requires parental notification before a minor can have an abortion, unless a judge grants a bypass.
The allegations were first detailed in a report that included handwritten statements from two former students. Both alleged that school staff arranged procedures, paid for them and did not notify their parents.
A Fairfax County Public Schools spokesperson said in an email to The Center Square that the division is fully cooperating with the Virginia State Police investigation and said it would not be appropriate for the division to comment further on the 2021 allegations. The spokesperson said the situation, as described, would not be acceptable in the school system and that FCPS remains focused on preparing for the new school year with a commitment to academic excellence and a safe, welcoming environment for all students.
The Center Square previously reported on the allegations, which have continued to draw attention on social media. In a Fox News exclusive published this week, it was reported that former teacher Michelle Perez repeatedly warned Fairfax school leaders, including then-Centreville High School Principal Chad Lehman, about possible coerced abortions.
It was also reported that the teacher shared audio from a 2022 meeting in which Lehman allegedly acknowledged her concerns. The recordings, which are now circulating online, have fueled renewed public debate over when officials first learned of the accusations.
Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears called the allegations “abhorrent and deeply troubling” and said the administration “will take the appropriate action to ensure the safety of all students.” She said the administration looks forward to the results of the investigation.
A Virginia State Police spokesperson said the investigation is active and no details could be provided at this time. The agency is asking anyone with information to reach out to them.
The governor’s office said the state police investigation will look into whether public money, potentially including local, state or federal funds, was used. No timeline for the investigation has been provided.
