Lancaster County, September 25, 2025
News Summary
The Lancaster County Circuit Court recently convened with significant cases on the docket, including serious charges against individuals facing trials and hearings scheduled in the upcoming months. Key cases involve felony charges for strangling, drug sales near educational institutions, and probation violations. The court continues to address a backlog of cases, highlighting its essential role in the justice system.
Lancaster County Circuit Court Proceedings Update for September and November 2024
The Lancaster County Circuit Court convened on September 19, 2024, under the leadership of presiding Judge R. Michael McKenney, with a series of significant cases scheduled for trial and hearings in the upcoming months.
Key Charges and Upcoming Trials
Trevon L. Henderson of Weems faces several serious charges, including a felony for strangling with resultant wounds, along with misdemeanor charges for stalking, which caused fear of death or assault, and assault and battery of a family member. A trial for Henderson is set for November 14, 2024.
Another notable case involves Calvin F. Taylor III from Kilmarnock. He has been charged with a felony for drug sales on or near a school/library and a felony for manufacturing/distributing a Schedule I/II substance for a third-plus offense. A hearing to appoint counsel has been continued, with a status hearing now scheduled for October 24, 2024.
Michelle White Smith of Gloucester is charged with a felony for violating probation. Her show cause hearing is also scheduled for November 14, 2024.
Additionally, James H. Gallon of Lancaster is facing a felony charge for shooting into an unspecified location, with details regarding the trial date yet to be announced.
Northumberland County Circuit Court Cases
In Northumberland County, several prosecutions are underway, with Joshua A. Morris of Warsaw charged with causing injury or cruelty to a child and entering a home to commit assault and battery, along with a status hearing set for November 18, 2024.
Another significant case involves James A. Brown IV of Champlain, who faces four counts of distributing/selling Schedule I/II drugs for profit. His trial has been continued to September 23, 2024.
Steven M. Davis of Heathsville has had two charges of assault on a law enforcement officer amended to misdemeanor assault and battery. Davis received a 90-day sentence, with 60 days suspended.
Recent Convictions
In a notable conviction, Sydney Dorin of Montross was found guilty of felony embezzlement, indicating a continuing scrutiny on financial crimes within the county.
Background Context on the Courts
The Lancaster County Circuit Court is integral to the administration of justice in Virginia’s local judicial system, addressing a variety of criminal cases and ensuring that due process is upheld. The scheduling of trials and hearings often reflects a backlog in the court’s docket, alongside ongoing efforts to manage and adjudicate cases in a timely manner. The handling of cases related to violent crimes, drug offenses, and property crimes demonstrates the serious nature of the offenses that the court typically processes, ensuring accountability and adherence to the law.
FAQs
What are the key charges against Trevon L. Henderson?
Trevon L. Henderson of Weems is charged with a felony for strangling with resultant wounds, a misdemeanor for stalking causing fear of death or assault, and a misdemeanor for assault and battery of a family member. A trial is scheduled for November 14, 2024.
What charges does Calvin F. Taylor III face?
Calvin F. Taylor III of Kilmarnock is charged with a felony for drug sales on or near a school/library and a felony for manufacturing/distributing a Schedule I/II substance (third-plus offense). A hearing to appoint counsel has been continued; a status hearing is scheduled for October 24, 2024.
What is the status of Michelle White Smith’s case?
Michelle White Smith of Gloucester is charged with a felony for violating probation, with a show cause hearing scheduled for November 14, 2024.
What recent conviction occurred in the courts?
Sydney Dorin of Montross was found guilty of felony embezzlement.
Key Features of Ongoing Court Cases
| Defendant | Charges | Hearing/Trial Date |
|---|---|---|
| Trevon L. Henderson | Felony strangling, Misdemeanor stalking, Misdemeanor assault | November 14, 2024 |
| Calvin F. Taylor III | Felony drug sales, Felony manufacturing/distributing | October 24, 2024 |
| Michelle White Smith | Felony violating probation | November 14, 2024 |
| James H. Gallon | Felony shooting | To be announced |
| Joshua A. Morris | Injury/cruelty to a child, Assault | November 18, 2024 |
| James A. Brown IV | Drug distribution charges | September 23, 2024 |
| Steven M. Davis | Misdemeanor assault | Completed |
| Sydney Dorin | Felony embezzlement | Completed |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Teenagers Arrested in Fatal Shooting at Fort Mill Park
Fort Mill Police Arrest Teens in Deadly Park Shooting
Man Charged with Assault After Allegedly Attacking Pregnant Wife
York County Celebrates Retirement of K-9 Officers Loki and Buster
Lancaster Man Receives 50-Year Sentence for Murder
Additional Resources
- Lancaster County Circuit Court Report – 248
- Northumberland County Circuit Court Report – 243
- Lancaster County Circuit Court Report – 246
- Wikipedia: Circuit Court
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Circuit Court
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