Democratic House candidate Bridgette Craighead was issued two summonses alleging abusive language, according to Franklin County General District Court records.
The charges were issued based on unfounded witness testimony that was not investigated by law enforcement, according to a release from Craighead’s campaign.
Craighead is seeking Virginia’s 9th District House seat in the Nov. 2 election.
Franklin County Sheriff Bill Overton said Wednesday that two Abusive Language Class 3 misdemeanor summonses were issued by the magistrate. Both papers were served Sept. 25 by Overton’s office.
According to court records, the complainant is identified as Michaelynn Hanson, and the alleged incidents occurred on Sept. 24, 2021.
“Our campaign has been about fighting injustice and speaking truth to power since day one. I will fight these unfounded charges in court. Per legal counsel, I won’t issue a further statement about this ongoing legal matter,” Craighead’s campaign said in an emailed statement. “I look forward to sharing more information with our supporters in the coming days. In the meantime, my campaign remains laser-focused on working for the people and families of the 9th District and uplifting forgotten voices.”
The Code of Virginia states that Class 3 misdemeanors are punishable by up to a $500 fine.
A hearing is set for Oct. 28.
