RICHMOND, Va. — A former Virginia lawmaker was arrested over the weekend on felony gun and drug charges and a misdemeanor charge of violating a protective order, according to a sheriff’s office official and jail records.
Matt Fariss, who had served in the House of Delegates as a Republican since 2012 before running unsuccessfully last year as an independent, was booked at a Blue Ridge Regional Jail facility early Sunday, online jail records show.
He faces charges of possession of a Schedule I or II drug, a felony, possession of a Schedule I or II drug while possessing a firearm, also a felony, and misdemeanor violation of a protective order, Lt. Jarrett Rea of the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office said by phone.
Rea said that apart from confirming the charges, which were also listed in jail records, he had no other details to share about the allegations against Fariss or what led to his arrest. He said more information would likely be available Monday.
It was not immediately clear if Fariss had an attorney who could comment on his behalf. None was listed in court or jail records, and Rea could not say whether Fariss had obtained one. Jail records indicated Fariss remained in custody Sunday afternoon.
Jail records list a court date for Fariss on Monday though no date was immediately reflected in the state’s online court system.
The development came just weeks after Fariss was acquitted of felony hit-and-run and malicious wounding charges after being accused last year of striking his ex-girlfriend with his SUV after they had argued. Fariss — of Campbell County, just outside of Lynchburg — was convicted of a less serious charge of improper driving and ordered to pay a $500 fine.
Chuck Felmlee, the defense attorney who represented Fariss in that case, did not immediately respond to inquiries left at his office Sunday.
News of Fariss’ arrest was reported earlier by Cardinal News.
Former GOP Virginia lawmaker Matt Fariss has found himself in legal trouble once again, this time facing felony gun and drug charges for the second time. Fariss, who previously served in the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 59th District, was arrested on Tuesday following a search of his property in Campbell County.
According to reports, law enforcement officials discovered multiple firearms and drugs during the search of Fariss’ property. The former lawmaker was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.
This is not the first time Fariss has faced legal trouble. In 2019, he was arrested on similar charges after a traffic stop led to the discovery of drugs and firearms in his vehicle. Fariss ultimately pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance and was sentenced to probation.
Fariss’ latest arrest has raised questions about his judgment and suitability for public office. As a former lawmaker, he was entrusted with making decisions that impact the lives of Virginians, yet his actions suggest a disregard for the law and a lack of respect for the responsibilities that come with public service.
In response to his arrest, Fariss released a statement expressing remorse for his actions and acknowledging that he has made mistakes. He also stated that he plans to seek treatment for substance abuse issues and take responsibility for his actions.
The case against Fariss is still ongoing, and it remains to be seen what consequences he will face as a result of his latest arrest. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and upholding the integrity of our political system.
Overall, Matt Fariss’ arrest on felony gun and drug charges for the second time is a troubling development that raises concerns about his character and fitness for public office. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of irresponsible behavior and the importance of upholding the law, even for those in positions of power.
