Josh Fitzpatrick, a former meteorologist at NBC29 WVIRTV in Charlottesville, Virginia, has been arrested on charges of felony sexual extortion and unlawful creation of an image of another. He was taken into custody on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Gallia County, Ohio, where he had relocated shortly after the investigation began. Fitzpatrick is currently being held in Ohio, awaiting extradition to Virginia. citeturn0news17
The charges stem from an incident in which Fitzpatrick allegedly recorded a video of a consensual sexual encounter and later threatened to release it, leading to an investigation by the Albemarle County Police Department. A warrant for his arrest was issued on April 9, 2025. citeturn0news5
Authorities are continuing their investigation and are seeking any additional potential victims. Fitzpatricks next court dates in Virginia will be scheduled upon his return to the Commonwealth. citeturn0news17
Fitzpatrick had been a prominent figure in the Charlottesville area, known for his work as a meteorologist at NBC29. His arrest has garnered significant attention in the community.