Author Archives: Jay Butchko

What is the Difference Between Distributing Controlled Substances & Marijuana?
The Virginia Criminal Code provides many laws against various drug crimes, and includes severe criminal penalties for violations. Within the domain of Virginia, it is unlawful to distribute controlled substances, such as heroin, opium, or cocaine. It is also illegal to distribute marijuana, outside of narrow exceptions. That being said, there are separate statutes… Read More »

Involuntary Manslaughter Charges Levied After Fatal Crash in Virginia
A Virginia man faces criminal charges for aggravated involuntary manslaughter after allegedly causing a drunk driving fatality, according to an article by WTOP. This incident occurred on Thursday, October 22nd in Lake Ridge, Virginia. The Virginia man was driving on Glenridge Drive and turned left onto Springwoods Drive and began driving the wrong direction…. Read More »

Is it a Crime to Issue a Bad Check in Virginia?
The Virginia Criminal Code features numerous laws against theft, larceny, and fraud. Additionally, this category of state crime includes other offenses, such as the issuance of bad checks. Under Virginia law, any person who intentionally issues a check with insufficient funds can face criminal punishment for their actions. What is the Definition of a… Read More »

Exploring Another Four Versions of Reckless Driving in Virginia
Reckless driving is a criminal offense under the Virginia Criminal Code. Depending on the severity of the offense, reckless drivers can face Class 1 misdemeanor or Class 6 felony charges. Upon conviction, reckless drivers usually face multiple criminal penalties, including jail time, criminal fines, and driver’s license suspension. The following sections will explore four… Read More »

Police Officer Arrested for Drug Crimes in Virginia Beach
After a lengthy investigation, the Virginia Beach Police Department arrested one of its officers for a drug crime, according to an article by The Virginian-Pilot. The officer in question faces six counts of unlawful possession of a Schedule III controlled substance. According to official reports, the drug crimes in question happened from June 2019… Read More »

DUI Expungement Eligibility & Requirements in Virginia
DUI expungement is a legal action that allows a person to hide certain criminal records from public access in Virginia, such as dismissed charges for a felony or misdemeanor. This process does not destroy the criminal records completely. Rather, expungement in Virginia shields the criminal records from the public sphere, requiring a court order… Read More »

Driver Loses Control & Faces Reckless Driving Charges in Virginia
A driver faces criminal charges for reckless driving after allegedly causing a multi-vehicle accident in Chesterfield County, according to an article by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. This car accident occurred on Thursday, September 10th at approximately 6 a.m. The driver in question was heading southbound on Interstate 95, just past the exit to Route 288…. Read More »

Dissecting the Elements of Residential Arson in Virginia
Arson is a felony crime in Virginia that involves the use of fire or explosives to cause harmful damage. This offense comes in many different forms, depending on the location of the offense and various other factors. A common form of this crime is sometimes referred to as residential arson. Residential arson means the… Read More »

Virginia Man Arrested for Armed Robbery & Multiple Drug Crimes
Virginia law enforcement arrested a man from Sterling on charges of multiple drug crimes and armed robbery, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. This incident traces back to Friday, September 11th at approximately 8 p.m. Deputies of the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of an armed robbery near the 46000… Read More »

What is Implied Consent to DUI Testing in Virginia?
The Commonwealth of Virginia has a duty to maintain safety and security on all highways and roadways within its borders. In keeping with this duty, Virginia prohibits drivers from driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. Furthermore, Virginia law stipulates implied consent to DUI testing for all drivers who operate a vehicle… Read More »