Author Archives: Jay Butchko
How Does Virginia Define & Punish Rape?
Rape is arguably the most serious sexual offense under the Virginia Criminal Code. From a larger-level standpoint, rape can occur as a result of force, threat, or intimidation. Though rape can also involve mentally incapacitated, physically helpless, or underage victims. Whatever the circumstances of a rape charge, the penalties are extremely severe under Virginia… Read More »
Virginia State Crime Commission Evaluates Drunk Driving
The Virginia State Crime Commission (the “Commission”) is currently evaluating the statewide impact of drunk driving, according to an article by CBS affiliate WDBJ. A study from the Commission indicated that driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is the cause of approximately one third of fatal crashes in Virginia. The study… Read More »
How Does Virginia Address Cannabis Distribution Drug Crimes?
Even though the Commonwealth of Virginia legalized cannabis for recreational possession and use, unlawful distribution remains a drug crime. Furthermore, any person who violates the Virginia laws against the distribution, sale, or gift of cannabis can face severe punishment, including criminal fines and confinement in jail or prison. What are the Virginia Laws Against… Read More »
Virginia School Principal Arrested For DWI & Hit And Run In Loudoun County
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office arrested an elementary school principal for driving while intoxicated (DWI) and hit-and-run offenses, according to an article by ABC affiliate WJLA. Sheriff’s deputies began investigating this incident after responding to reports of a vehicle crashing into a residence. The perpetrator left the scene of the accident without providing any… Read More »
Virginia Drug Crimes: Common Nuisances & Fortified Drug Houses
When discussing drug crimes under Virginia law, the conversation tends to revolve around possession, distribution, or trafficking. These crimes typically make the news headlines and, thus, dominate much of the attention. But the Virginia laws against various drug crimes go far beyond possession, distribution, or trafficking offenses. For example, it is a Virginia drug… Read More »
Virginia Man Faces Reckless Driving Charges For Fatal Accident
Police arrested a man from Sterling, Virginia for allegedly committing reckless driving and causing a fatality, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. The Virginia State Police stated that this accident occurred on August 27 at approximately 1 p.m. in Fauquier County. At that point, the Sterling man was driving on James Madison… Read More »
Overview Of Money Laundering Laws & Penalties In Virginia
Money laundering is a white-collar crime under Virginia law. This offense involves property or cash obtained from criminal activities that is “laundered” or “washed” into seemingly legal instruments. Depending on the circumstances of the offense, money laundered can result in misdemeanor or felony charges in Virginia. Money Laundering Definitions Code of Virginia Section 18.2-246.2… Read More »
3 FAQs On Reckless Driving Under Virginia Law
Reckless driving is a broad criminal offense under Virginia law that can occur in many different forms. At a threshold level, reckless driving involves dangerous conduct behind the wheel of a vehicle. Accordingly, reckless driving offenders can face serious criminal penalties. What is Reckless Driving in Virginia? Code of Virginia Section 46.2-852 establishes the… Read More »
Loudoun County Firefighter Charged With Arson In Virginia
A volunteer firefighter in Loudoun County faces criminal charges for arson after allegedly setting their vehicle ablaze, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. The volunteer firefighter in question lives in West Virginia and was serving as a member of both the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System and the Purcellville Volunteer… Read More »
Fatal Crash Leads To Reckless Driving Charges For Virginia Woman
A Virginia woman faces criminal charges for reckless driving after allegedly causing a fatal accident, according to an article by FOX affiliate WFXR. The Virginia State Police indicated that this single-vehicle accident occurred just before 8 p.m. on Monday, October 31. At that time, the Virginia woman allegedly left the road after entering a… Read More »
