If you’ve gotten a traffic ticket in Augusta County recently, you might be among the hundreds of people lucky enough to have your case dismissed.
Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith dismissed approximately 600 traffic violations for a deputy “not properly displaying the badge of authority at the time the summonses were issued.”
Smith appeared in Augusta County General District Court on Oct. 27 to formally drop the charges.
“The deputy was not properly wearing the badge on their uniform,” Lt. Leslie Snyder said.
The deputy, who has not been named, is still employed, Snyder told AFP.
The problem was allegedly identified by ACSO administration and promptly reported to the General District Court, according to a news release.
“This was a mistake that the sheriff’s office made, and dismissing these violations is the first step in correcting this issue,” said Smith. “We take full responsibility and are taking the necessary actions to ensure this does not occur again.”
Augusta County Commonwealth’s Attorney Tim Martin was made aware of the issue prior to the dismissals. The ACSO is working with the court clerk’s office to identify other cases that may be impacted.
No information was provided on potential refunds for court fines or on how people affected will be notified.
ICYMI
A thread on the ACSO social media page found that multiple people have contacted the court to pay fines and have been told their case was dismissed.
There is speculation in the thread that the error could have been found after a lighthearted TikTok video went viral by patrol deputy Shamica Spears. The video is no longer available to the public; the account has been set to private. The cropped photo we used with the story showed the deputy in a black vest but no visible badge.
Virginia law is clear: “Every law-enforcement officer shall be uniformed at the time of the enforcement or shall display his badge or other sign of authority.”
The regulations apply to state police officers and law-enforcement officers of every county, city, town, or other political subdivision of the Commonwealth, according to Virginia code.
According to Snyder, this is still an active ongoing investigation.
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Crystal Graham
