RICHMOND, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) — As of July 1, over 700 new laws have taken effect in Virginia, impacting various aspects of life for residents across the state.
Among the significant changes, Virginia’s public universities can no longer offer admissions advantages to applicants with family members who are alumni. This move aims to ensure a more equitable admissions process.
Additionally, Lucia’s Law, named after Lucia Bremer, a 13-year-old tragically killed by a classmate with mental health struggles who accessed a parent’s firearm, seeks to hold gun-owning parents more accountable. This law underscores the importance of responsible gun ownership and aims to prevent similar tragedies.
Irvo’s Law, named after 28-year-old Irvo Otieno who died while being restrained during a mental health crisis at Central State Hospital in 2023, ensures that individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can have a loved one by their side. This law is a step towards more compassionate mental health crisis management.
VADOC K9 Officer and Partner Honored as Officers of the Month
RICHMOND, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) — A Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) K9 Officer, Kharmishia Phillip Fields, and her K9 partner, Rivan, have been recognized as Officers of the Month for April 2024 by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF).
During a violent altercation at Sussex I State Prison on April 2, Rivan, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois, protected Officer Fields but succumbed to his injuries. Indictments related to the incident were announced on June 28.
“Both Officer Phillip Fields and Rivan were heroic that day. The loss of Rivan is tragic, and one we must not forget,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. The NLEOMF honors law enforcement officers who demonstrate exceptional service and dedication.
New Court Date Set for Boyd Tinsley Following DWI Arrest
ALBEMARLE COUNTY, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) — Boyd Tinsley, former violinist of the Dave Matthews Band, has a new court date following his arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI) after a two-vehicle crash on June 24, 2024.
Tinsley’s hearing, initially scheduled for July 1, has been postponed to October 15. In addition to the DWI charge, he faces charges for following too closely and driving with an expired registration. No injuries were reported in the crash. Tinsley, who was with the band from 1992 to 2018, left amid allegations of sexual assault, which were settled financially in 2019.
Tom Sox Drop First Game of Crucial Series with Turks, Look to Rebound Tonight
As the Valley League Baseball season reaches its critical phase, the Charlottesville Tom Sox began July with a pivotal two-game series against the Harrisonburg Turks. Leading the southern division by three games, the Tom Sox aimed to maintain their advantage.
In the first game at Veterans Memorial Park, the Turks pulled ahead with a two-run double from designated hitter Luke Hatcher, leading to Charlottesville starter Thomas Whelan’s exit. Despite efforts from reliever Brett Gastman and a pinch-hit, two-run double from catcher Jack McMullan, the Tom Sox fell 10-4.
The teams will face off again tonight (Tuesday, July 2) at 7:30 PM. The Tom Sox are determined to rebound and hold their lead in the division.
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