Henrico Police investigating racist texts targeting Black residents

Henrico County Police officials are investigating after receiving reports of racist text messages being sent to residents, some specifically targeting those in the Highland Springs area.

In a statement, Henrico Police Chief Eric English said that police officials have been made aware of the racist text messages circulating locally and are working alongside local, state, and federal partners to identify the source.

In one such message, shared online by Varina District Supervisor Tyrone Nelson, who said he had heard from Black Henrico residents who had received similar texts, the sender wrote: "CONGRATULATIONS! Donald J. Trump is your new president-elect. As apart [sic] of our plan to make america great again and project 2025 you have been selected to pick cotton at Varina Plantation. Please be prepared to leave your home on January 21th [sic], 2025. You will be picked up by our van @8AM SHARP. You will sit with Group C. Have a nice day! #MAGA."

"There is no place in Henrico for this type of hateful and racist rhetoric," English said. "These messages aim to divide and scare our neighbors and community members and create confusion. We want to assure our community that there will be no tolerance for these types of hateful messages."

English went on to say that while similar text messages have been reported nationally, any messages sent locally will be investigated, and those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible.

"The actions of the individuals attempting to spread hate and fear will have consequences," English said. "Once those responsible are found, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible."