Everything You Need to Know About Arrests in Amherst, Virginia

Understanding the Amherst County Sheriff's Office

The Amherst County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in Amherst County, Virginia. The office is headed by Sheriff E. Joseph DeRenzo, who is elected to a four-year term. The Sheriff's Office has a staff of approximately 50 sworn officers and 20 civilian employees.

Amherst County Jail

The Amherst County Jail is a regional jail that houses inmates from Amherst County, as well as the cities of Lexington and Buena Vista. The jail has a capacity of 250 inmates.

Arrest Statistics

According to the Virginia State Police, there were 1,023 arrests made in Amherst County in 2020. Of these arrests, 68% were for felonies and 32% were for misdemeanors.

The most common felony arrests in Amherst County in 2020 were:

• Drug possession (22%)
• Larceny (18%)
• Assault and battery (15%)

The most common misdemeanor arrests in Amherst County in 2020 were:

• Driving under the influence (25%)
• Disorderly conduct (20%)
• Trespassing (15%)

How to Get Arrested in Amherst County

There are many ways to get arrested in Amherst County. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Possession of illegal drugs
• Assault and battery
• Larceny
• Trespassing
• Disorderly conduct

What to Do If You Are Arrested

If you are arrested in Amherst County, you will be taken to the Amherst County Jail. You will be fingerprinted, photographed, and questioned. You will then be given a bond hearing. At your bond hearing, a judge will decide whether to release you on bond or to keep you in jail until your trial.

If you are arrested, it is important to remember the following rights:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
• You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you.

Amherst County Court System

The Amherst County Court System is divided into two divisions: the General District Court and the Circuit Court. The General District Court handles misdemeanors and traffic offenses. The Circuit Court handles felonies and other serious crimes.

Getting Help

If you have been arrested in Amherst County, there are several resources available to help you. You can contact the Amherst County Sheriff's Office at (434) 946-9300. You can also contact the Amherst County Legal Aid Society at (434) 946-7600.

Tips and Tricks

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid situations that could lead to an arrest.
• If you are arrested, remain calm and cooperative.
• Do not resist arrest.
• Politely assert your constitutional rights: right to remain silent & request an attorney
• Contact an attorney or legal aid society as soon as possible.
• Follow the instructions of the judge or magistrate.
• Show up for all of your court hearings.
• If you are found guilty, do not hesitate to appeal.

Pros and Cons of the Amherst County Criminal Justice System

Pros:

• The Amherst County Sheriff's Office is a professional and well-trained law enforcement agency.
• The Amherst County Jail is a clean and safe facility.
• The Amherst County Court System is fair and impartial.

Cons:

• The Amherst County Jail is often overcrowded.
• The Amherst County Court System can be slow and inefficient.
• The Amherst County Criminal Justice System can be expensive.

FAQs:

1. What is the most common felony arrest in Amherst County?
2. What is the most common misdemeanor arrest in Amherst County?
3. What are my rights if I am arrested in Amherst County?
4. What should I do if I am arrested in Amherst County?
5. Where can I get help if I have been arrested in Amherst County?
6. What are the pros and cons of the Amherst County Criminal Justice System?

Table 1: Amherst County Arrest Statistics

Table 2: Most Common Felony Arrests in Amherst County

Table 3: Most Common Misdemeanor Arrests in Amherst County