Richardson trial continued

By CAITLIN SULLIVAN/Staff

In a quick legal exchange between lawyers and the judge last week, former Damascus police Chief Tony Richardson’s July 25 hearing was continued to Oct. 24 at 9 a.m.

Richardson remained outside the courtroom. District Court Judge Sage B. Johnson allowed the former police chief to stay away from the crowded courtroom after one of his lawyers, Melissa Friedman of the Roanoke-based Anderson & Friedman, said he was present.

Richardson was charged in June with seven counts, including distribution of methamphetamine and prescription drugs and possession of drugs with a firearm.

The several-months long investigation into Richardson involved local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

Richardson was fired as Damascus Police Chief in July.

To contact Caitlin Sullivan e-mail or call (276) 628-7101.