Lawsuit Filed in Portsmouth Alleging Negligence in Hiring Officer Convicted of Sexual Assault
A lawsuit has been filed in Portsmouth, Virginia, naming former Police Chief Tonya Chapman and the city, alleging negligence in the hiring of an officer convicted of sexual assault.
Norfolk Portsmouth Newport News, VA, September 19, 2026 — A lawsuit has been filed in Portsmouth, Virginia, naming the city and its former Police Chief Tonya Chapman. The suit alleges negligence in the hiring process for a police officer who was subsequently convicted of sexual assault.
The legal action centers on the hiring of an individual who had a prior conviction for sexual assault. The plaintiffs contend that the city and Chief Chapman at the time failed in their duty to properly vet and hire law enforcement personnel, leading to the hiring of an officer with a disqualifying criminal history.
Details regarding the specific timeline of the hiring and conviction, the identity of the officer in question, and the specific nature of the alleged negligence are not fully detailed in the initial reports. The lawsuit was filed in Portsmouth, Virginia.
The role of former Police Chief Tonya Chapman is specifically called out in the suit, indicating that she is being held accountable for decisions made during her tenure regarding hiring practices within the Portsmouth Police Department. The city of Portsmouth is also named as a defendant, suggesting municipal liability for the alleged failures in oversight and hiring protocols.
Information about the status of the lawsuit, including the plaintiffs involved and the specific claims for damages, has not been publicly disclosed in initial summaries. Further proceedings are expected as the case moves through the legal system. The extent of the alleged harm caused by the hiring of the officer convicted of sexual assault is a key component of the legal claims being brought forward.
The case highlights concerns over due diligence in the recruitment and hiring of law enforcement officers, particularly concerning individuals with past criminal convictions. The outcome of this lawsuit could have implications for hiring policies and accountability within public safety departments.
Story summarized from the original created by Brett Hall on www.wavy.com, see more information here.
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