A special prosecutor is investigating whether Democratic Attorney General candidate Jay Jones falsified community service records tied to a 2022 reckless driving conviction, adding to the mounting controversies surrounding his 2025 campaign.
Jones was caught driving 116 mph in a 70 mph zone on Interstate 64 in New Kent County. He was fined $1,500 and ordered to complete 1,000 hours of community service. In January 2024, Jones submitted certificates claiming he completed 500 hours each for the Virginia NAACP and his own political action committee, Meet Our Moment PAC. Under Virginia law, community service cannot be performed for political campaigns or organizations.
The inquiry was assigned to James City County Commonwealth’s Attorney Nathan Green after New Kent County Commonwealth’s Attorney Scott Renick recused himself due to a potential conflict of interest. Judge Elliott Bondurant approved the recusal and appointed Green to lead the investigation.
Renick, in an interview, underscored the intent behind such sentencing. “It’s supposed to be something where you’re giving back to the community,” he said, suggesting skepticism over Jones’ reported hours.
Jones’ campaign, already reeling from the fallout of a separate scandal involving violent text messages, has not commented on the new investigation. Earlier this month, messages surfaced showing Jones fantasizing about shooting then–House Speaker Todd Gilbert and committing other acts of violence. “Like all people, I’ve sent text messages that I regret and I believe that violent rhetoric has no place in our politics,” Jones said in response.
Attorney General Jason Miyares, Jones’ Republican opponent, criticized his rival, saying, “It is not possible for Jay Jones to fulfill the duties of this office while under an open criminal investigation.”
With the November 2025 election approaching, Green’s findings could play a decisive role in determining Jones’ political future. (RELATED: Fairfax GOP Warns Ballot Design Could Expose Votes for Virginia Attorney General Race)