Murder Plots Foiled By Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. – On June 16, 2026, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to a reckless driving report near Austin Ridge Drive and Cabinet Maker Drive. Information was provided that the vehicle went off the road and struck a speed limit sign. The vehicle was not found during an initial search of the area.

Later that evening, units were able to locate the suspect’s vehicle at the Wawa on Garrisonville Road. Both suspects inside the vehicle were detained.

A search of the suspects revealed unopened alcoholic beverages, and a tray of food could be seen on the vehicle’s dashboard. Using camera footage from the Wawa, it was determined that the suspects had stolen the alcoholic beverages from the store. The suspects then admitted to stealing the food tray from the nearby Buffalo Wild Wings.

During a search of the vehicle, units located opened alcoholic beverages, multiple knives, medical items and a notebook detailing a murder plot.

Detectives immediately jumped into action and began reviewing all available information.

An investigation determined that the notebook was owned by Louis Conely, 19, of Stafford. Further evidence revealed that Conely, alongside the other suspect — a juvenile — had developed two detailed murder plots against the juvenile’s family.

The juvenile was charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit murder and one count of felony threats in writing. The juvenile was held at Rappahannock Regional Juvenile Detention Center.

Conely was charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit murder, two counts of felony threats in writing, petit larceny, unlawful purchase of an alcoholic beverage, drinking while operating a motor vehicle, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, possession of a schedule IV controlled substance, hit-and-run and reckless driving. Conely was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

The investigation remains active and ongoing so no further information will be provided at this time.

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with our community, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life by maintaining order, protecting life and property and reducing the fear of crime. Located in Stafford County, Virginia, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office ensures the peace and safety of all citizens by upholding the Constitution of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

For more information, visit staffordsheriff.com or email sheriffpio@staffordcountyva.gov.