On January 1, 2025, at 12:19 AM, Breanna May Woods was arrested in Stafford County, Virginia, on a charge of failure to appear for a misdemeanor offense under Virginia Code § 19.2-128(C). This charge alleges that Woods failed to attend a scheduled court hearing related to a previous misdemeanor case, which resulted in a bench warrant for her arrest.
Understanding Failure to Appear for a Misdemeanor in Virginia
Failure to appear occurs when a person who is legally summoned to court does not attend their scheduled hearing. In Virginia, failing to appear for a misdemeanor offense is itself a Class 1 misdemeanor, even if the original charge was less severe. To prove the charge, prosecutors must demonstrate that the individual:
- Was properly notified of the court date.
- Willfully failed to attend the hearing without a valid excuse.
This charge is taken seriously because it disrupts the judicial process and delays case resolution. Courts may issue a bench warrant, authorizing law enforcement to arrest the individual and bring them before the court.
Potential Consequences of the Charge
If convicted of failure to appear for a misdemeanor offense in Virginia, the penalties may include:
Additional Legal Complications: The defendant may face stricter conditions for release, such as higher bond amounts or denial of bond, depending on the nature of the original case.
Jail Time: Up to 12 months in county jail.
Fines: Up to $2,500.
Charges Below:
Booking Date: 01/01/25 City: Stafford County, Ohio
Hair: Black Eyes: Hazel Weight: Height: Gender: Female
| Title | Type | Bond |
| FAILURE TO APPEAR: ON MISDEMEANOR OFFENSE | $ |