Fredericksburg Police Department issued the following announcement on Aug. 19
Be informed. The Fredericksburg Police Department wants to ensure everyone is aware of Virginia State Legislative changes. Today's post focuses on the arrest of a misdemeanor charge and being released on a summons, Section 46.2-936. If an officer releases a person on a summons, they are no longer required to sign it. If any person refuses to give a written promise to appear in court, the arresting officer shall give such person notice of the time and place of the hearing, note such person's refusal to give his written promise to appear on the summons, and forthwith release him from custody. However, any person who fails to cease the illegal act after being issued a summons can be arrested at that time and taken before a magistrate.
Signing the summons is not an admission of guilt. It is simply a signature to show that you will attend court as required by law and know when and where to appear.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up