FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2022
CPD Arrests Suspect Linked to Social Media Threats Against UVA
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – At approximately 10:30 a.m. on November 14th, 2022, the Charlottesville Police Department (CPD), while working in conjunction with the University of Virginia Police Department, was made aware of several concerning and threatening social media posts.
CPD opened an investigation into the postings and the individual believed to be responsible for posting them. At approximately 4:00 p.m., Charlottesville detectives obtained and subsequently served a search warrant for an address associated with the suspect in the 200 block of West Main Street in the City of Charlottesville.
As a result of the investigation Bryan Michael Silva, a 31-year-old male, was arrested and charged with the following offenses:
- Virginia Code Section - § 18.2-308.2. Possession or transportation of firearms, firearms ammunition, stun weapons, explosives or concealed weapons by convicted felons
- Virginia Code Section - § 18.2-250. Possession of controlled substance
Mr. Silva was also a served an outstanding/active protective order issued by the Albemarle County General District Court. He was held without bond at the Albemarle – Charlottesville Regional Jail.
At this time, CPD does not believe at this time Mr. Silva’s threats were related to the tragic events that occurred last night at the University of Virginia. However, we understand the fear this caused in our community and acted swiftly to resolve this investigation.
If you have any further information regarding this investigation, please contact the Charlottesville Police Department at (434) 970-3280 or Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (434) 977-4000.
Media Contact
Kyle Ervin
Public Safety Information Officer
City of Charlottesville
434-326-3043
ervinkl@charlottesville.gov