Domestic violence charges of any kind can result in serious consequences for the accused. Just being charged is enough to affect the person’s reputation and career. Virginia Delegate Rick Morris has been asked to resign after he was arrested twice for alleged domestic violence. Multiple leaders from the House of Delegates report that though Morris has not yet been found guilty, the allegations are troubling enough to warrant resignation.
The charges against Morris stem from an alleged incident involving Morris striking his stepson on the arms, causing welts and bruises. The boy was also allegedly forced to sit and stand in the corner of a room for a majority of a three-day period. The boy may have run away from home on the second day.
According to court records, Morris’ wife reported that he assaulted her in December of last year during an argument. Mr. Morris allegedly grabbed her neck and pushed her, which caused her to injure her ankle.
Morris is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from these incidents including multiple counts of domestic assault involving a minor, domestic violence involving an adult, child endangerment and cruelty and injuries to children. Morris is set to appear in court soon.
Charges of domestic violence are taken very seriously by courts all over the country and could result in jail time. Protective orders or restraining orders may also be implemented, limiting contact between the accused and the alleged victim. While these charges can be difficult to handle, the right defense can save you from being found guilty and allow you to resume a normal life.
Source: WKTR, “House leadership asks Va. Delegate Rich Morris to resign following domestic assault charges,” Sep. 24, 2016
