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[Photo: Alan Gloss]
Prince William County

Teen robbed at gunpoint in Woodbridge

  • Woodbridge — On April 5 at 7:24 p.m., officers responded to the Tackett’s Mill shopping center in the 2200 block of Tacketts Mill Drive for a robbery. A 14-year-old boy reported being approached by three men who robbed him at gunpoint. The suspects took the teen’s shoes, clothing, and electronics before fleeing in a white Acura sedan. They were described as one white male and two black males, all in their late teens, wearing dark clothing and masks. No injuries were reported.

Gunshots heard in Dumfries

  • Dumfries — On April 6 at 9:41 p.m., police responded to Porters Inn Drive and River Ridge Boulevard for a report of gunfire. Officers found shell casings near a wooded area, but no injuries or property damage were reported.

Three businesses hit in Woodbridge burglary spree

  • Woodbridge — On April 7 at 1:56 a.m., officers found shattered front doors at Pizza Hut and Chili On Top in Dillingham Square shopping center. No property was reported missing, and suspects were not located. Earlier on April 4 at 2:39 a.m., Concept Nails in the same center was burglarized. A cash register was stolen after the suspect shattered the front glass door. Investigators are working to determine if the incidents are related.

Apartment entered in Manassas

  • Manassas — On April 5 at 3:43 a.m., police responded to Rosemary Ridge Apartments in the 10900 block of Wild Ginger Circle. A sliding glass door was used to enter the apartment sometime between April 4 at 11 a.m. and April 5 at 12:40 a.m. No property was reported stolen, and there were no signs of forced entry.

Storage unit burglarized

  • Woodbridge — On April 4 at 9:17 a.m., a storage unit at Public Storage, 1365 Old Bridge Road, was found broken into. Tools and other items were stolen sometime between March 28 and April 4.

Domestic dispute leads to knife injury

  • Manassas area — On April 6 at 1:36 p.m., officers arrested Tiffany Michelle Wyatt, 42, following a domestic dispute with a 43-year-old man at a residence on Community Drive. Police said Wyatt used a knife to injure the victim’s hand.
    Charge: Malicious wounding
    Bond: $3,000 secured | Court date: Pending

Man accused of holding woman at gunpoint

  • Dumfries — On April 4 at 7:23 p.m., Kevin Jenkins, 20, was arrested after allegedly brandishing a gun, restraining, and biting a 19-year-old woman during a domestic dispute on Vidalia Court.
    Charges: Abduction, brandishing a firearm, assault & battery
    Bond: Held without bond | Court date: Pending

Woman spits on officer at hotel

  • Woodbridge — On April 4 at 1:06 p.m., Yamilet Kassandra Glen, 28, was arrested at the Hilton Garden Inn in the 2500 block of Neabsco Common Place. Police said she and another occupant refused to leave after checkout, and Glen spat on an officer and hotel employee.
    Charges: Assault & battery on a LEO, assault & battery, trespassing
    Bond: Unavailable | Court date: Pending

Man found inside grocery store after break-in

  • Manassas area — On April 6 at 4:16 a.m., police found and arrested Henry Paulino Rodas Reyes, 29, inside Global Foods on Festival Lane following an alarm. The front door had been left ajar, but no items were reported missing. Charge: Burglary. Bond: $7,000 secured | Court date: Pending

Stafford County

Pepper spray used during assault with cane

  • Fleet Road — On April 4 at 6:08 a.m., a victim used pepper spray to defend himself after a suspect attempted to hit him with a cane. The suspect was charged with simple assault and held until sober.

Man assaulted by woman while drinking

  • Cobblers Court — At 6:58 a.m. on April 4, a man reported being assaulted by a known woman while the two were drinking together.

Inmate hides drugs in boot

  • Rappahannock Regional Jail — On April 4 at 2:55 p.m., jail staff found a suspected controlled substance hidden in an inmate’s boot. The substance was seized.

Teen stopped for DUI with open liquor

  • Richmond Highway — On April 4 at 10:47 p.m., an 18-year-old was pulled over at the Last Stop Mart for speeding. The teen showed signs of intoxication and had an open liquor bottle. He was charged with DUI, underage possession, and other related offenses.

Don Julio stolen twice in same day

  • ABC Store, Town and Country Drive — On April 4, deputies responded to two larcenies. At 5:36 p.m., two juveniles stole four bottles of Don Julio. At 7:44 p.m., a man stole two more bottles of whiskey.

Three women charged with public intoxication

  • Brafferton Boulevard, April 4, 3:23 a.m.: A woman was knocking on a door while intoxicated.
  • Stafford Courthouse, April 4, 10:32 a.m.: A woman arrived intoxicated and had an active warrant.
  • Yellow Finch Way, April 5, 4:26 p.m.: A woman admitted to drinking Buzz Balls and vodka before deputies found her stumbling.

Text threats lead to arrest

  • Dent Road — On April 5 at 3:08 p.m., a woman was arrested after sending threatening messages about burning down a house. She was held on a $2,500 secured bond.

Three warrant arrests in two days

  • All Star Pawn, Kings Highway, April 4: A suspect tried to use a fake ID but was arrested for multiple larcenies and identity theft.
  • Rappahannock Regional Jail, April 4: A man turned himself in while intoxicated, saying he got drunk to make surrender “easier.”
  • Advance Auto Parts, Washington Square Plaza, April 5: A wanted man from Ashland was arrested during a traffic stop and charged with additional vehicle violations.
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Burns

Jose Rafael Lizama, a 48-year-old Manassas Park resident, was sentenced on April 3, 2025, to 10 years in prison, with five years suspended, for the 2023 death of Justin Burns. He will serve five years in the Virginia Department of Corrections, followed by five years of supervised probation. Lizama must also wear an ankle monitor for continuous drug and alcohol testing after release.

Lizama

Four days before the start of his January 2025 trial, Lizama took a plea deal and admitted to striking and killing Justin Burns of Blackstone near Richmond while speeding and driving drunk on December 2, 2023. Justin was crossing the 8900 block of Center Street in downtown Manassas, near Old Town Sports Pub, just before 11 p.m. Police crime scene investigators determined that Lizama was traveling nearly double the speed limit in foggy weather when he struck Justin. 

Prince William Assistant Commonwealth Attorney, Ryan Reynolds, told the court that police wrote in their report that Lizama had attempted to blend into the crowd to avoid responsibility for the crash until witnesses identified him as the driver.

Lizama appeared remorseful before Prince William County Circuit Court Judge Angela Horan, apologizing to the judge, the victim’s family, and his own family. “I’m sorry from the bottom of my heart to Mr. Burns’ family. My words will never be enough for the pain and suffering that I have caused,” Lizama said through a Spanish interpreter.

Horan said she wanted to see an end to drunk driving and stated that the sentencing guidelines did not allow for a harsher sentence. “We are never going to eradicate this behavior (drunk driving) if we let people get away,” she said, adding, “too many lives are taken because of this behavior.”  Raising her voice, Horan expressed anger that he had been driving 47 miles per hour drunk down Manassas’ Center Street. “That decision was outside the realm of the sentencing guidelines.”

Lizama had prior offenses related to speeding and alcohol dating back to 2018 in Virginia. It is unclear when he entered the country or if he had other violations elsewhere.

Kim Burns, Justin’s mother, gave a victim impact statement emphasizing his philanthropic work in the community. He volunteered with several organizations, including the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Manassas. He also founded Succor Solutions, Inc., a nonprofit specializing in disaster recovery and economic development in Blackstone.

Burns told the court she was saddened not to receive a call from Justin on her 66th birthday, as he had done every year. “Our lives changed forever that day. There will never be a day I don’t wake up thinking of Justin, and he is the last thought I have before I go to sleep. My son had so much to give, and that’s not going to happen now. I’m never going to get to dance with my son at his wedding. I’m never going to get to hold my grandchild from him, and he’s not going to be there for his brother and sister when his dad and I get old.”

“Justin was a blessing to the community, what a loss his death was to the community,” Horan said in response.

Justin had been in town to attend an event for his nonprofit. Burns described Justin’s death as a “good day,” during which he participated at the Manassas Christmas parade with his brother and toured the recently renovated Manassas Museum. He was on his way to Old Town Sports Pub to meet friends when he was killed.

After sentencing, Burns told Potomac Local News that she was glad Horan did not hold back in chastising Lizama from the bench. “While nothing can fill the loss of our son, Justin, Judge Horan served a sentence that brings him some justice while setting a precedent that drinking and driving will not be tolerated.”

Burns said her family plans to honor Justin’s legacy by organizing an annual blood drive, something he was passionate about. Justin was designated as a “Hero for Babies” by the American Red Cross, a title awarded to blood donors who meet specific criteria to provide safe and essential blood for newborns and infants. His blood donations over the years saved more than 75 lives.

Lizama’s attorney, Fernando Villarroel of the Manassas-based Irving Law Group, did not respond to requests for comment. He had sought only probation and alcohol treatment for Lizama, but Horan denied the request.

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[Photo: Alan Gloss]

Prince William County:

Road Rage Shooting – Suspect at Large

Dale Blvd & Forestdale Ave (Dale City) – April 2, 2025
A man was shot at during a road rage incident while driving on Dale Blvd. The suspect, described as a Black male in his 30s with dreadlocks, fired multiple rounds before fleeing. The victim’s vehicle was struck, but no injuries were reported. Police are actively searching for the suspect.

Armed Robbery at Gas Station

Wawa – 13303 Telegraph Rd (Woodbridge) – April 1, 2025
A clerk was held at gunpoint by a masked suspect demanding cash. The suspect took an undisclosed amount of money and fled on foot. No injuries were reported. The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 5’10”, wearing all black clothing and a ski mask.

Assault on Police Officer

Prince William Pkwy & Hoadly Rd – April 1, 2025
A traffic stop turned violent when a driver became combative, striking an officer. The suspect, identified as Johnathan Parker, 32, of Manassas, was arrested and charged with assaulting an officer and resisting arrest.

Hit-and-Run Driver Crashes into Business

Sudley Rd (Manassas) – April 2, 2025
A driver lost control and crashed into a storefront before fleeing the scene. The business sustained major damage, but no injuries were reported. Police are reviewing surveillance footage to identify the suspect.

Stafford County:

Drug Bust at Local Church – Multiple Arrests

Victory Church (Garrisonville Rd) – April 1, 2025
A major drug operation was uncovered at a local church, where deputies found large amounts of narcotics and cash. Several individuals were arrested, and more charges are expected as the investigation continues.

DUI – Suspect Found Passed Out at Intersection

Route 610 & Mine Rd – April 2, 2025
Deputies discovered a driver unconscious at a red light with an open bottle of liquor in his lap. The suspect, a 36-year-old male from Stafford, was arrested for DUI and reckless driving.

Residential Burglary – Suspect Caught on Camera

Austin Ridge Dr – April 1, 2025
A homeowner reported a break-in caught on a Ring camera. The suspect forced entry through the back door and stole electronics before fleeing. Police are working to identify the suspect.

Vandalism – Vehicles Keyed in Parking Lot

Target – 1090 Stafford Market Pl – April 1, 2025
Multiple vehicles were keyed in the parking lot. Victims reported deep scratches along the sides of their cars. Surveillance footage is being reviewed.

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[Courtesy of Northern Virginia Police Cars via Instagram]

Father, 6-year-old son drown in Rappahannock River

A spring break outing turned tragic when a father and his 6-year-old son drowned in the Rappahannock River in Spotsylvania County.

Danny Sumner and his young son went to a boat landing off Legacy Lane on Saturday, March 22, sometime before 5 p.m. They were reported missing when they didn’t return home by 9:45 p.m. Deputies responding to the scene found Sumner’s vehicle and cell phone near the dock. Shortly after the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office Dive Team entered the water, they recovered both victims.

Investigators say the child, who had just caught a fish, fell into the river. His father jumped in to save him but drowned in the attempt.

The child was enrolled in Spotsylvania County Public Schools. Officials say counseling will be made available.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that the area where they entered the water is not a public boat ramp. The Rappahannock River is tidal and unpredictable. At the time of the incident, the water was 9 feet deep and 52 degrees cold.

There is no evidence of foul play.

Fredericksburg Police

Man arrested after exposing himself to Girl Scouts, masturbating in coffee shop

Fredericksburg Police arrested 28-year-old Terrence Bernard Rock Graham after a series of disturbing incidents on March 29.

Witnesses say Graham exposed himself to a group of Girl Scouts selling cookies. A bystander told him to leave, and he fled on a bicycle. Later, he inappropriately grabbed a restaurant employee at J. Brian’s while helping with a flag, then returned trying to speak with her again. Finally, he was caught masturbating inside a downtown coffee shop next to two female patrons.

Graham, who has no fixed address, was arrested nearby and is being held without bond. He faces multiple charges:

  • Indecent Exposure
  • Actual or Simulated Masturbation in Public
  • Sexual Battery

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Fredericksburg Police at 540-373-3122 or text “FPDtip” to 847-411.

Additional Fredericksburg incidents

  • Theft from motor vehicles was reported on West Kensington Circle and Woodland Road.
  • Wallet thefts occurred at Panera Bread on Carl D. Silver Parkway.
  • Vandalism to a car was reported on Keeneland Road.

Notable arrests include charges for malicious wounding, firearm possession by a felon, drug possession, multiple shoplifting incidents, and several family-related assaults. A full list of names and charges is available from the department.

Prince William County Police

Armed robbery suspect arrested

Deontae Terrell Galitan, 21, of Woodbridge, was arrested March 29 in connection with an armed robbery at the 7-Eleven on Dumfries Road earlier that month. He brandished a firearm and stole cash before fleeing. He was served with charges while already incarcerated on unrelated matters.

Gun brandished at teen in Manassas

On April 1, a 17-year-old boy was approached by two masked suspects on Winchester Court near Irongate Way. One suspect pulled a firearm during a brief confrontation before they separated. No one was hurt. The suspects were dressed in all dark clothing.

Swastika found at Patriot High School

A school resource officer reported a swastika drawn inside a classroom dictionary on March 26. The incident, reported two days later, did not contain threats or additional markings.

Anyone with tips is asked to contact Prince William County Police at 703-792-7000 or visit pwcva.gov/policetip.

Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

DUI crash leads to assault on rescue staff

On April 1 at 8:11 p.m., Stanley Oliver Jr., 61, of Warrenton, was a passenger in a Dodge Charger that crashed into a tractor-trailer near Warrenton and Cedar Grove roads. Police say Oliver, intoxicated, grabbed the steering wheel, causing the crash. The vehicle also carried a juvenile.

During a search, deputies found suspected controlled substances. While being transported in an ambulance, Oliver became aggressive and assaulted Fire and Rescue staff. No one was hurt.

Oliver was charged with:

  • DUI
  • Possession of controlled substances
  • 3 counts of assault on rescue staff
  • Child neglect
  • Interfering with driver control
  • Driving without a license

He is being held without bond.

Other Stafford incidents

  • Public intoxication at Lowe’s on Stafford Market Place resulted in a nighttime arrest.
  • Threatening texts reported by a woman on Providence Street from an ex-boyfriend since January.
  • Vandalism at Paddy’s Steakhouse, where a window was shattered and glass neatly swept into a pile.
  • Another vandalism involved a smashed vehicle window on Spring Lake Drive.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office at 540-658-4450.

 

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[Photo: Alan Gloss]

Prince William County

MALICIOUS WOUNDING | ARMED ROBBERY
Regency Apartments, Gardenia Ln, Manassas | March 20 (Arrests on March 23 & 29)
A 38-year-old woman was lured by acquaintances, assaulted, cut with a razor, and robbed.

  • Malkia Dannelle Alexander, 40, of Fredericksburg – Charged with malicious wounding
  • Devin Edward Thompson, 38, of Haymarket – Charged with malicious wounding and robbery
    Both suspects have been arrested.

STRANGULATION [Domestic]
Deward Ct, Manassas | March 30, 9:00 p.m. (Reported March 31)
A 61-year-old woman was choked and beaten during a domestic dispute.
Otis Lee Allen, 54, is wanted for strangulation and domestic assault. He remains at large.

BRANDISHING OF A FIREARM [Road Rage]
Opitz Blvd & Gideon Dr, Woodbridge | March 28, 4:08 p.m.
A road rage incident escalated when a driver pointed a firearm at another man.
Marshad D. Ledbetter, 29, of Triangle is wanted for brandishing a firearm.

RECKLESS HANDLING OF A FIREARM
Keelingwood Cl, Woodbridge | March 31, 8:55 p.m.
Tyra Tedder, 26, fired several rounds into the air during a verbal dispute. No injuries or damage were reported. She was arrested and released on a $2,500 bond.

Stafford County

ASSAULT
Paradise Court | March 31, 1:45 p.m.
A boyfriend was charged with assault and battery after attacking his girlfriend during an argument over money. Bystanders intervened. He is held without bond.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

  • Richmond Hwy & Woodstock Ln | March 30, 7:18 p.m.
    A Dodge Ram driver with expired tags admitted to drinking “quite a few Buzz Balls.” He faces DUI (BAC over .2), open container, and registration violations. Held on a $2,500 bond.
  • Enterprise Rent-a-Car, 2875 Richmond Hwy | March 31, 12:14 p.m.
    A woman with a heavily damaged vehicle said her car was “a little wonky.” She was charged with DUI and lane violation. Held until sober.
  • Bells Hill Rd | March 31, 12:47 a.m.
    A man was caught urinating after swerving on the road. Police found an open box of wine and a fake registration. He was charged with DUI, refusal, altered plates, and other infractions. Held on a $3,000 bond.

LARCENY
Goodwill, 54 North Stafford Complex Center | March 31, 12:13 p.m.
A man’s speaker was stolen from his bike while he shopped. Video evidence led to a suspect confession. A warrant was issued.

VANDALISM

  • Giant, 35 Town & Country Dr | March 30, 7:33 a.m.
    Rocks were thrown at a woman’s vehicle during breakfast.
  • Royal Farms, 4 Commerce Pkwy | March 30, 2:55 p.m.
    A motorcyclist damaged a gas pump nozzle in frustration.
  • Coastal Ave | March 31, 10:54 a.m.
    A family woke up to find their home egged—no candy involved.

WARRANT SERVED
7-Eleven, 378 Garrisonville Rd | March 30, 5:18 p.m.
Deputy Bates spotted a wanted woman who initially resisted. A tattoo confirmed her identity. She was arrested for a probation violation, obstruction, and drug possession. Held without bond.

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[Scott Rodgerson/Unsplash]
Prince William County

Domestic Dispute Turns Violent in Coverstone IV Apartments
At 10:10 p.m. on Friday, March 29, police were called to the Coverstone IV Apartments on Cass Place for a domestic incident. A 27-year-old woman told officers that her acquaintance, Micah Emmanuel Ragin, 30, of Kannapolis, N.C., assaulted and strangled her during an argument. The man also allegedly threatened her with a knife. Police obtained warrants for Ragin, who remains at large. He is wanted for strangulation, attempted malicious wounding, and domestic assault and battery.

Instagram Sale Leads to Armed Robbery
Early Saturday morning, March 30, a 21-year-old man reported being robbed at gunpoint during a meet-up to sell clothing through Instagram. The robbery occurred on Croce Court, also in the Coverstone IV Apartments. The buyer pulled a firearm and, with the help of an accomplice, stole clothing, money, and a firearm. No injuries were reported. The suspects fled before police arrived.

Driver Brandishes Gun at Group
Just before 10:40 p.m. on March 28, officers responded to Sudley Road, where the driver of a white BMW allegedly pulled a gun on a group of people during an argument in a parking lot. A 23-year-old man approached the vehicle and was threatened with the weapon. The suspect fled the scene. No injuries were reported.

Gunfire in Two Neighborhoods
Officers also investigated two separate reports of gunfire in Manassas on Sunday, March 30:

Around 4:47 p.m., multiple shots were heard on Twin Rivers Drive. A red sedan was seen fleeing. Shell casings were recovered, with no injuries or damage reported.
At 5:33 p.m., more shots were reported on Duvon Place. A vehicle sped away, and shell casings were found nearby on Evans Ford Road. No injuries or damage were reported.

Stafford County

Chess Match Escalates into Assault
On March 29 at 6:46 p.m., deputies responded to a home on Puri Lane where an intoxicated man allegedly assaulted another person after a dispute during a chess game. The suspect also attempted to retrieve a firearm. Deputies arrested him after a brief struggle. He was charged with assault and battery, public intoxication, and obstruction of justice.

Ramoth Church Rider Charged
On March 28 just before 10 p.m., deputies were called to the 1000 block of Ramoth Church Road for a vehicle crash. A Toyota traveling at high speed left the roadway and slammed into a parked pickup truck, pushing it approximately 175 feet into a neighbor’s home. The driver, a 29-year-old man, was injured and showed signs of intoxication. Deputies found numerous bottles of alcohol in the car. The man was charged at the hospital with DUI, driving without a license, no insurance, and reckless driving. No one inside the home was injured.

DUI Arrests

Washington Square Plaza (3/28, 12:20 p.m.): A man was found intoxicated behind the wheel of a Jeep in the Sheetz parking lot. He admitted to drinking “a lot” and had open containers. He was charged with DUI and driving on a revoked license.

Richmond Hwy & Courthouse Rd (3/29, 2:22 a.m.): A woman driving 50 mph in a 35 mph zone was pulled over. She had open containers and failed sobriety tests. She was charged with DUI, speeding, and refusal.

George Mason Road (3/29, 6:27 p.m.): A woman driving a Mercedes was stopped after tailgating. She admitted to drinking five glasses of wine and claimed her “bubbly personality” could be mistaken for intoxication. She was charged with DUI and released to a responsible party.

Fraud Alert
A resident reported receiving a scam phone call from someone posing as a sheriff’s deputy demanding a gift card to avoid arrest for missing jury duty.

Thefts and Larcenies

Ulta Beauty (3/28): Three suspects stole over $5,000 in high-end cosmetics and hair care products.
America’s Best Value Inn (3/29): A man not staying at the hotel was caught stealing towels for the second day in a row.
Walmart (3/29): A man was cited after stealing oral care products and leaving in a Chevy Malibu.
Public Intoxication Calls

Town Center Blvd (3/28): An intoxicated woman trying to walk to Woodbridge was taken to the hospital.
Garrisonville Road (3/29): A man walking with his pants falling down was arrested for public intoxication.
Warrant Arrests

Raynar Court (3/28): A woman wanted in Pennsylvania was arrested without incident.
Garrison Woods (3/29): A man wanted in Stafford, Caroline County, and Maryland was arrested and held without bond.

Fredericksburg

Home Invasion and Aggravated Assault Under Investigation
Fredericksburg Police are investigating a violent breaking and entering that occurred around 10:40 p.m. on March 29 in the 1000 block of Hotchkiss Place. A masked man dressed in all black forced his way through a basement door and assaulted a female resident, strangling her until she lost consciousness. The victim later regained consciousness and struggled with the intruder, possibly breaking his arm before he fled on foot toward the Snowden Hills area.

Despite searches by the Fredericksburg Police Drone Team and a K9 unit from the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect remains at large. He is described as a heavier-set man, approximately 6’2”, wearing all-black clothing and a black balaclava. Anyone with information is asked to contact Fredericksburg Police at 540-373-3122.

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[Scott Rodgerson/Unsplash]
A top-ranking member of the violent MS-13 gang was arrested in Dale City, according to federal authorities who held a Thursday morning press conference at the FBI’s regional office near Manassas.

While officials provided few details about the suspect — whose name has not been released — U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Erick Siebert said the individual was involved in gang-related criminal activity along the East Coast. The arrest is the latest in an ongoing effort to target violent gang members with suspected immigration violations.

“This arrest stems from a task force we launched on March 3, 2025, to identify and apprehend individuals in the country illegally who are involved in criminal enterprises,” said Siebert. “We are using an intelligence-based model to locate and arrest suspects.”

Of the 575 individuals identified so far by the task force, 342 have been arrested. Authorities say 81 of those arrested have confirmed gang ties, including to MS-13.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and other high-ranking officials joined Siebert at the press conference. Prince William County Police have a representative on the task force, but the department declined to comment on this specific arrest.

Prince William Board of County Supervisors Chair At-large Deshundra Jefferson responded to news of the arrest in a statement.

“Let me assure you that there is no welcome mat for criminals. Gang violence is not welcome anywhere – especially within Prince William County,” Jefferson said. “For too long, MS-13 has been terrorizing the communities where it has taken root, and I hope this arrest relieves some anxiety.

“We are still gathering additional information about this arrest that I hope will soon be shared publicly. But I would like to add that Prince William County follows all applicable state and federal laws.”

Several locally elected officials and members of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors said they were unaware of the arrest or Thursday’s press conference. Many regional and local media outlets were also not notified in advance.

The press conference is available to view online. Authorities say more information will be released as it becomes available.

Alan Gloss contributed to this report.

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Prince William County police have arrested a second suspect in connection to a death investigation that began last month in the 13200 block of Trowbridge Drive.

Aguilar

Jonathan Alberto Aguilar, 21, of Hazelton Drive in Woodbridge, was taken into custody on March 24 and charged with concealment of a dead body. He is being held without bond, and a court date has not yet been set.

Police previously arrested Maurice Jermaine Waller on February 20 in connection with the same case. Both men are accused of transporting and concealing the remains of Robert Patrick Hearn, 42, of Annandale, whose body was discovered in the roadway on February 8.

Officers responded to the scene at 7:17 a.m. that morning, where they found Hearn’s decomposed body. An autopsy determined there were no immediate signs of trauma, and detectives believe he died elsewhere before his body was moved to Trowbridge Drive.

Police say the case does not appear to be random. The investigation remains ongoing.

More police blotter:

Prince William County:

Homicide-Related Arrest – Second Suspect Charged

Woodbridge (22192) – March 24, 2025
Police arrested Jonathan Alberto AGUILAR, 21, in connection with the concealment of a dead body investigation from February 8. His alleged accomplice, Maurice Jermaine WALLER, had been arrested earlier. The body of Robert Patrick HEARN, 42, was found on Trowbridge Drive.

Armed Robbery – Suspect Arrested

Woodbridge (22191) – March 25, 2025
Alex Daniel GARCIA-GARCIA, 23, was arrested for robbing a 21-year-old woman at gunpoint and stealing her phone during an altercation on Easy Street.

Fatal Car Crash Under Investigation

Gainesville (20155) – March 24, 2025
A 52-year-old woman, Marat Lise ESSEX, died after her Toyota Highlander veered off Linton Hall Road, struck a guardrail, and rolled into a field. Investigators are seeking witnesses.

Shooting During Attempted Home Invasion

Woodbridge (22192) – March 24, 2025
Michael William TRAMONTANO, 36, was arrested after attempting to force his way into a neighbor’s apartment while armed. The resident fired a gun in self-defense, accidentally injuring an uninvolved neighbor. TRAMONTANO faces charges of attempted burglary and use of a firearm in a felony.

Unlawful Filming at Walmart

Dumfries (22026) – March 22, 2025
A 49-year-old woman reported a man attempting to film her in a restroom stall at Walmart. The suspect, described as a black male, 20-30 years old, with short braids, fled in a grey Nissan Rogue.

Domestic Strangulation – Suspect Arrested

Manassas (20109) – March 24, 2025
Jerrod Andre THOMPSON, 26, was arrested for strangulation and domestic assault after attacking a 37-year-old woman during an argument.

Reckless Shooting on I-95

Woodbridge (22193) – March 24, 2025
A 25-year-old man reported his car windows shattered while driving on I-95. He suffered minor injuries from broken glass. No suspects have been identified.

School Vandalism – Hate Symbols Found

Nokesville (20181) – March 20, 2025
Swastikas and derogatory language were discovered inside a Brentsville High School textbook. No threats were found, and the investigation is ongoing.

Stafford County:

DUI & Assault – Woman Attacks Man After Drinking

Jay’s Sport Lounge, Richmond Highway – March 23, 2025
A woman was arrested after assaulting a man from behind while intoxicated. She was also charged with DUI after admitting to drinking before driving.

DUI – Driver Caught Drinking Beer Behind the Wheel

Pancho Villa, Garrisonville Road – March 23, 2025
A driver was caught drinking beer inside his Mustang before attempting to leave. He was arrested for DUI with a BAC between .15 and .2.

DUI – Near Collision with Tractor-Trailer

Kings Highway & Blue and Gray Parkway – March 23, 2025
A Chevy driver nearly crashed into a tractor-trailer before being pulled over. He admitted to drinking “a couple of Bud Lights” and was arrested for DUI.

Juvenile Robbed While Playing Basketball

Olde Forge Drive – March 23, 2025
A black male suspect with a neck tattoo and beard stole a juvenile’s phone while he was playing basketball.

Larceny – Alcohol Theft at ABC Store

Garrisonville Road – March 24, 2025
A man and woman stole expensive alcohol from an ABC store and fled.

Vandalism – Park Restroom Destroyed

Willowmere Park – March 24, 2025
Vandals ripped a sink off the wall, clogged toilets with paper, and stole a mirror from a women’s restroom at Willowmere Park.

Outstanding Warrants – Two Suspects Arrested

  • Pancho Villa, Warrenton Road – March 23, 2025: A suspect wanted in Stafford was located and arrested.

  • Sizzling Kabob, Warrenton Road – March 24, 2025: A suspect with outstanding warrants in both Stafford and Henrico was arrested.

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[Photo: Alan Gloss]

Prince William County

Gang Members Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Jailhouse Assault

Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth announced the successful prosecution of Bryan Hernandez Diaz and Jaime Garcia Mendoza following a gang-related assault on July 24, 2023, at the Prince William County Adult Detention Center in Manassas.

Both men pleaded guilty to Malicious Wounding charges. Hernandez Diaz was sentenced to 10 years in prison on September 26, 2024, by Judge Robert P. Coleman. Mendoza received the same sentence on March 20, 2025, from Judge Tracey C. Hudson. Both were already in custody for unrelated violent felonies at the time of the attack and will serve probation upon release.

The assault occurred inside Unit 13 Cell 1 when jail officers heard a cry for help. The victim was found bleeding heavily with multiple lacerations and puncture wounds consistent with sharp weapons, including a puncture wound to the chest. He told officers the attackers, including Diaz and Mendoza, declared intentions to kill him and believed he was affiliated with a rival gang to La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13).

Officers discovered bloody clothing in Diaz’s cell and a four-inch bloodied nail lodged in the toilet drain.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Alex Brandler, with Detective Casey Nelsen serving as the case agent. Celina Cary and Elena Latham from the Victim Witness unit also assisted.

“We will continue to focus our office’s resources on prosecuting those that commit violent acts, especially gang violence,” said Ashworth.

Source: The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney


Woodbridge Teen Convicted of 2022 Homicide

A jury in Prince William County found Elijah Hadley, 19, guilty of first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and gang participation for the July 2022 shooting death of Brian D. Marshall II in Woodbridge. The verdict was reached on March 21, 2025. Sentencing is scheduled for June 5, 2025.

Marshall was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his abdomen, arms, and legs. Investigators obtained Ring camera footage showing two masked individuals approaching the scene, opening fire, and fleeing. Weeks later, Hadley was arrested on an unrelated charge. A firearm found in his possession was confirmed through forensic testing to have been used in the homicide. His DNA was also found on shell casings at the scene, and clothing matching the shooters’ attire was recovered from his home.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys Kathleen Bilton and Zoe Bair, and Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Brandon Parker.

“The evidence in this case was initially too weak to proceed to justice… I am proud of, and appreciate, all of the hard work by the prosecutors and police officers that contributed to bringing this case to justice,” said Ashworth.

Victim Witness Director Tamara Thomas and Case Manager Celina Cary provided support to the victim’s family. Detectives S. Davis and D. Cupka were credited for their investigative work.

Source: The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney


Spotsylvania County

Man Arrested in Child Pornography Investigation

On March 10, 2025, the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding an online account allegedly used to upload and store child sexual abuse material.

A search warrant was executed at the home of 28-year-old Bryson Jeleniewski in Spotsylvania County. Authorities seized multiple electronic devices. Jeleniewski was arrested and charged with two counts of 18.2-374.1:1(A) — possession, reproduction, distribution, solicitation, and facilitation of child pornography. He was remanded to the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is part of the NOVA-DC Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, a nationwide network that supports local and state investigations into online child exploitation.

Community members are urged to report suspected child abuse to the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia CPS State Hotline, or NCMEC at https://report.cybertip.org or 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678). Anonymous tips can be submitted through www.p3tips.com or the P3Tips app.


Prince William County

Man Shot During Argument – Suspect Arrested

Manassas (20109) – March 24, 2025
A 31-year-old man was shot after an argument escalated on Belle Grae Drive. The suspect, Adrian GARCIA, 25, allegedly fired at the victim as he tried to leave. Garcia was arrested and charged with malicious wounding and use of a firearm in a felony. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Armed Robbery – Teen Held at Gunpoint

Woodbridge (22191) – March 22, 2025
A 14-year-old boy was robbed at gunpoint at Riverside Station Apartments while attempting to trade clothing via Instagram. Two suspects, described as black males in dark clothing, stole the victim’s items and fled.

Strong-Arm Robbery – Macy’s Theft Turns Violent

Manassas Mall (20109) – March 21, 2025
A man stole merchandise from Macy’s and pushed two employees before fleeing. The suspect was described as a black male with dreadlocks, wearing a red hoodie, blue jeans, and white sneakers.

Attempted Stabbing in Domestic Dispute

Manassas (20109) – March 22, 2025
Abir THAKUR, 35, was arrested after attacking a 60-year-old female family member and attempting to stab two others with a knife. He faces three counts of attempted malicious wounding and additional charges.

Suspect Attacks Officer During Crisis Call

Manassas (20109) – March 22, 2025
Joahnna Lauren ALIZAI, 33, was arrested after pushing and grabbing officers while they responded to a crisis call. She was charged with assaulting a law enforcement officer (LEO) and obstruction of justice.

Burglary – Homeowner Fights Off Intruder

Manassas (20109) – March 22, 2025
A homeowner caught Byron ARGUETA ARGUETA, 25, stealing from a shed. A struggle ensued before officers arrested Argueta, who was charged with burglary, assault, and larceny.


Stafford County

Kinsale man faces alcohol charges

A smorgasbord of alcohol was discovered after a Jeep driver made himself easy for deputies to locate—by driving on two shredded tires.

On March 22 at approximately 5:29 a.m., Deputy A.G. Hart responded to Ferry Road for a report of a suspected drunk driver. A caller reported the driver of a Jeep was testing the slogan “go anywhere, do anything” a little too literally, maneuvering the vehicle on two destroyed tires and showing signs of intoxication.

Deputy Hart quickly spotted the vehicle, which was still in drive and blocking a driveway, with the driver slumped over the wheel. In plain sight, several beer bottles—some open—were observed inside the Jeep. After the driver awoke, deputies noted signs of impairment.

The suspect, Alfredo Hernandez Murrieta, 33, of Kinsale, was charged with driving under the influence, second offense within five years (BAC between .15 and .2), reckless driving, second offense driving without a license, and drinking while driving. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Home Invasion – Woman Assaulted & Robbed

Short Branch Road – March 22, 2025
Two female suspects entered a woman’s home, assaulted her, and stole her phone, which was later found damaged. They were arrested in another Virginia jurisdiction and face charges including malicious wounding, burglary, and larceny.

DUI – Truck Crashes into Tree

Brooke Road – March 21, 2025
A driver crashed into a tree and was found intoxicated. He was hospitalized and later charged with DUI.

DUI – Woman Found in Ditch with Open Containers

Hollywood Farm Road – March 22, 2025
A driver was arrested after her car was found in a ditch with open alcohol containers. She was charged with DUI and drinking while driving and held on a $3,000 bond.

Larceny – Three Walmart Thefts in One Day

Garrisonville Road – March 21, 2025

  • A suspect stole a speaker and fled in a tan Cadillac SUV.

  • A woman was caught shoplifting $290 worth of beauty products and was issued a summons.

  • Two juveniles were caught stealing $50 worth of items and were released to their parents.

Public Intoxication – Man Found with Vodka Bottle

Cabell Road – March 22, 2025
A man was arrested after causing a disturbance while holding a half-empty vodka bottle.

Public Intoxication – Woman Knocks on Stranger’s Door Late at Night

Holly Corner Road – March 22, 2025
A highly intoxicated woman was found wandering and knocking on doors late at night. She was arrested for public intoxication.

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A paraprofessional at Conway Elementary School was arrested following an investigation into inappropriate conduct involving students, according to information from the Stafford Sheriff’s Office posted on March 20, 2025.

The sheriff reports that the investigation began on March 18 after a student alerted school officials that a male staff member was misbehaving toward a female student. A School Resource Officer immediately began an investigation, and the case was referred to detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit.

The suspect was arrested at the school, 105 Primmer House Road. Detectives say Van Orden had taken inappropriate photos and videos of unsuspecting juvenile students.

He has been charged with 19 felony counts and one misdemeanor count of unlawful creation of the image of another.

Detective B.E. Abramaitys is leading the investigation and is working to identify and notify the victims. The Sheriff’s Office coordinates with Stafford County Public Schools to ensure all affected students receive appropriate support services.

“We understand parents and members of the community will have many questions, and our office will work to get those answers,” a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Eric Van Orden, 56, of Stafford, is being held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

The Sheriff’s Office commended the student who came forward with the report and said plans are underway to formally recognize the student’s bravery.

“This young man’s actions helped uncover a serious crime, and we are extremely proud of him,” the statement said.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Abramaitys at 540-658-4400.

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