A former meteorologist is facing criminal charges. Police arrested Josh Fitzpatrick in Ohio on Tuesday. He was taken into custody on a fugitive warrant.
Albemarle County Police charged Fitzpatrick. The charges are felony sexual extortion and unlawful creation of image of another. Authorities said the investigation began on February 28. This followed a victim report.
The victim stated a consensual encounter happened. After this, they faced extortion. Fitzpatrick allegedly threatened to release a video. The victim said the video was made without their knowledge or consent.
Albemarle County Police got arrest warrants. This happened on April 9. Warrants were issued for 42-year-old Joshua W. Fitzpatrick of Charlottesville.
Investigators learned Fitzpatrick had moved. He relocated to Ohio soon after the investigation started.
Police in Ohio helped with the arrest. Fitzpatrick was arrested Tuesday, April 22, 2025. He is currently held in Ohio. He awaits extradition back to Virginia.
His court dates in Virginia will be scheduled later. This will happen after his return to the state.
Detectives believe there may be more victims. The investigation suggests this.
Albemarle County Police encourage people to come forward. Anyone who had an encounter with Fitzpatrick should contact them. Police ask them to call the Criminal Investigations Division at 434-296-5807. ACPD is seeking victims in sexual extortion case.
"Investigators learned that Fitzpatrick had relocated to Ohio shortly after the investigation began," according to an Albemarle County Police news release. "With the assistance of Ohio law enforcement, Fitzpatrick was arrested on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. He is currently being held in Ohio awaiting extradition to Virginia."
