Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Can I Refuse A DUI Test During A Virginia Traffic Stop?
When executing a traffic stop on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), a Virginia police officer has lawful authority to request a chemical test to measure the driver’s level of intoxication. Given the severe penalties in Virginia for DUI offenses, certain drivers have attempted to refuse the DUI test. Any person who refuses… Read More »
Virginia Police Complete Investigation Into Drug Crimes
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (“LCSO”) announced the conclusion of a three-year investigation into various drug crimes, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. In collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (“EDVA”), the LCSO effectuated the largest seizure of illegal drugs… Read More »
Virginia Police Arrest Thirty-Six People For Various Drug Crimes
Virginia law enforcement officers concluded an undercover investigation by arresting 36 people for various drug crimes, according to an article by The Roanoke Times. The underlying investigation and eventual arrests were the result of a collaboration between the Virginia State Police, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Martinsville Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service, the Drug Enforcement… Read More »
Does Virginia Enhance DUI Penalties For Repeat Offenders?
The Virginia Criminal Code prohibits driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances. Any person who commits DUI in Virginia will face criminal penalties, which includes confinement in jail or prison and expensive fines. There is, however, a substantial difference in the Virginia penalties for misdemeanor versus felony DUI…. Read More »
Virginia Police Arrest Two For Loudoun County Burglaries
Virginia law enforcement arrested two men for felony burglary offenses committed in Sterling and Ashburn, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office announced these arrests on Tuesday, May 18th. One of the men is from Virginia; the other man hails from Maryland. The pair collaborated to force their… Read More »
What Is The Relationship Between Street Racing & Reckless Driving In Virginia?
Reckless driving in Virginia occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle in a dangerous way that threatens the safety of people or property. This general definition exists in tandem with laws that classify certain types of behavior as reckless driving, including street racing. Although street racing is classified as reckless driving, there are… Read More »
Virginia Man Pleads Guilty To DUI & Involuntary Manslaughter
Local authorities charged a Virginia man with driving under the influence (DUI) and involuntary manslaughter after a fatal crash, according to an article by WAVY. The fatal crash in question occurred on Interstate 64 in March of 2020. The Virginia man apparently sent his vehicle airborne and caused the death of a survey crew… Read More »
Virginia Drug Crimes: Possession Or Distribution Of Cannabis Oil
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, it is generally a drug crime to possess or distribute marijuana or similar products, including cannabis oil. An exception is provided for approved medical and commercial uses, i.e., for people who have valid prescriptions and companies with proper authorization. While it is authorized under Virginia law, there are stringent… Read More »
Assessing Virginia Laws & Penalties For Two Firearm Weapon Crimes
The Commonwealth of Virginia features laws against a host of weapon crimes, including numerous firearm offenses. For example, Virginia prohibits any person from pointing, holding, or brandishing a firearm at anyone else. It is also a crime to discharge a firearm in or at a building or a dwelling house. If any person violates… Read More »
Virginia Reckless Driving Charges For Truck Driver After Striking Fire Engine
A truck driver faces charges in Virginia for reckless driving after allegedly crashing into a fire engine and causing several injuries, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. This incident occurred at approximately 6 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14. Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of an accident at the intersection of… Read More »