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MARION, Va. — A significant legal development has emerged from Marion, as a local man has been found guilty of committing indecent acts involving a minor. The Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office shared this outcome on Friday, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
David Kirkland, aged 45, was convicted on Thursday, as detailed in a statement from the office of Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney, Phillip Blevins Jr. This offense is categorized as a Class 6 violent felony, a serious tier in the Virginia legal system.
The conviction comes with severe consequences. According to the official release, Kirkland will face mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender. Additionally, the crime carries a potential sentence of up to five years in state prison.
Despite Kirkland’s previously clean criminal record, the Virginia sentencing guidelines suggest probation rather than imprisonment. However, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office is advocating for a more stringent approach, pushing for incarceration.
In the release, Blevins emphasized the commitment of his office to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, stating, “Protecting the innocent is among the highest duties of this Office, and we will continue that mission without apology or hesitation.”
The court ordered a presentence investigative report to be done before Kirkland’s sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for June 30. Kirkland is being held without bond, the release said.