ABC7/WJLA reports a new Virginia “Clean Slate” law has taken effect, making it easier for accused and convicted individuals to have criminal records sealed from public view. Reporter Nick Minock highlighted transparency concerns in a Nov. 9 video post on X.
ABC7 says access was blocked in a sex-assault case
ABC7 reported the station was blocked from learning what happened in a sexual assault case under the new law. The outlet said the law can make it harder for the public to see when prosecutors drop charges, make mistakes, or offer lenient plea deals.
Advocate: judges must seal if prosecutors consent
Sean Kennedy, president of Virginians for Safe Communities, told ABC7, “It does not allow judge review. If the prosecutor petitions for this and agrees to a sealing, the judge must. It is a shall, not a may. The prosecutor can either object or the prosecutor can agree. And if they consent to it, it goes away. The judge has no ability to say no.”
Supporters’ stated goal, per ABC7
According to ABC7, supporters say the law is intended to help accused and convicted people secure jobs and housing.
Fairfax cases cited by ABC7
ABC7 referenced its prior reporting on Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano and his office “making major mistakes or dropping charges” in cases, including one involving Abdul Jalloh, who ABC7 said is now accused of murdering a single mother and a stranger earlier this year.
Politics and attribution
The Gateway Pundit characterized the measure as passed by Virginia Democrats and argued it makes it easier for offenders to hide crimes. Those claims are the outlet’s characterization; ABC7’s report focuses on access, procedure, and stated intent.
Watch Nick Minock’s report on X for ABC7/WJLA.
