Virginia law § 18.2-280 prohibits willful discharging of firearms in public places, especially near schools, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the circumstances. Discharging a firearm that causes injury or occurs near educational facilities results in serious criminal charges. The law exempts law enforcement and lawful self-defense actions.
Discharging a firearm in public can result in a Class 6 felony if someone is injured, or a Class 1 misdemeanor if no injury occurs.
No, discharging a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school is a Class 4 felony, unless lawful hunting or authorized activities are involved.
Yes, law enforcement officers are exempt from this law when discharging firearms in the performance of their official duties.
Yes, the Commonwealth can choose to prosecute under other applicable laws instead of this section.