Author Archives: Jay Butchko

What Is The Virginia Crime Of Involuntary Manslaughter?
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is already a serious criminal offense in Virginia. In certain cases, the consequences for DUI can become even more severe, particularly in cases of involuntary manslaughter, which represents the intersection of DUI and manslaughter statutes in Virginia. How Does Virginia Define & Punish DUI? Code… Read More »

How Does Virginia Define & Punish Marijuana Drug Crimes?
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, there are laws against a variety of drug crimes. There are essentially two types of marijuana drug crimes in Virginia: possession and distribution. Marijuana possession is a lower-level offense, typically punishable by a simple fine. On the other, marijuana distribution can lead to more serious charges and the definite… Read More »

Virginia Man Charged With Multiple DUIs & Traffic Crimes In Less Than 12 Hours
Within a period of less than 12 hours, a man from Fredericksburg, Virginia allegedly committed two DUIs and various other traffic violations, according to an article by the ABC-affiliate WJLA. Apparently, law enforcement first arrested this man for a DUI accident at approximately midnight on Monday, February 22. Around 7 a.m. the next morning,… Read More »

Investigating 5 Common Types Of Reckless Driving In Virginia
Reckless driving is a criminal traffic offense in Virginia that revolves around dangerous behavior on the roads. The overarching statute states that a person commits reckless driving if they operate a vehicle in a way that creates a risk of property damage, physical injury, or death. When a person commits reckless driving in Virginia,… Read More »

Virginia Man Faces Charges For Trespass, Assault, Larceny & Other Crimes
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Virginia man for grand larceny, assault and battery, and various other crimes, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. On February 11, sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a stolen vehicle near the 42900 block of Fadeley Lane in Sterling. Law enforcement tracked the suspect to… Read More »

Virginia Charges Maryland Man with Reckless Driving & Assaulting Police
After allegedly leading police on a dangerous chase, a Maryland man faces criminal charges for reckless driving and assaulting a police officer in Virginia, according to an article by NBC29. On Sunday, February 7, Augusta County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to execute a traffic stop in the 400 block of East Side Highway. When the… Read More »

How Does Virginia Protect Against Stalking?
Under the Virginia Criminal Code, stalking is an offense that involves repeated and unwelcome contact. Existing in both misdemeanor and felony versions, the intention of stalking is to place a victim in reasonable fear of harm or injury. Stalking laws in Virginia protect a person’s family and household members. What is the Virginia Definition… Read More »

Multistate Drug Trafficking Operation Ends with Guilty Pleas in Virginia
Five people pleaded guilty to various federal crimes involving a drug-trafficking operation in Virginia and North Carolina, according to an article by WAVY. This operation encompassed numerous drug crimes and other violations, and it primarily involved fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. This case was a result of Operation Cookout, a federal law enforcement endeavor in… Read More »

When Does DUI Become a Felony Crime in Virginia?
The Virginia Criminal Code makes it illegal to drive under the influence (DUI) or while impaired. Under Virginia law, it does not matter if intoxication or impairment comes from alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances. The moment a person loses the ability to drive safely and carefully, driving their vehicle can qualify as… Read More »

Overview of U.S. Federal Laws Against Distributing Illegal Drugs
In addition to state laws against drug crimes in Virginia and other jurisdictions, there are also drug offenses that represent federal crimes. As at the state level, illegal drugs are referred to as controlled substances and divided into schedules based on various factors. In order for federal charges to apply, the U.S. government needs… Read More »