Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Tim Heaphy, former federal prosecutor, University of Virginia law professor, and chief legal analyst, discussed several critical issues affecting the Charlottesville community, including youth violence and local legal cases. Heaphy’s insights touched on both the rising crime rates among young people and significant ongoing legal proceedings in the area. 

Heaphy emphasized the need for a holistic approach to combat youth involvement in violent crimes. “We also have to help divert young people from making those choices… It takes a community, law enforcement… this takes a holistic approach,” he noted. Heaphy stressed the importance of addressing systemic issues like mental health and substance abuse to tackle the root causes of violence. 

He also discussed the ongoing legal case regarding the 2017 torch-lit rally at UVA, explaining that Albemarle County Commonwealth Attorney Jim Hingeley has brought charges against those involved for using burning objects to instill fear. Heaphy remarked, “Jim Hingeley’s theory is that went beyond speech into conduct and the torch was used to menace and put people in fear.” 

With youth violence and legal battles prominent in the Charlottesville area, Heaphy called for collaboration across the community and law enforcement to address the underlying issues and ensure public safety. 

Listen here for the full conversation: