Fauquier County Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney

06/22/2026

June is National Internet Safety Month—a reminder that online safety starts with awareness and open conversations.

Children and teens today spend more time online than ever before, creating opportunities for learning and connection, but also exposing them to potential risks.

Since 1998, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) has operated the CyberTipline, a reporting system where the public and electronic service providers can report suspected child sexual exploitation. Information gathered through these reports helps identify emerging trends and develop resources to address evolving online threats.

NCMEC's NetSmartz program provides free, age-appropriate videos, activities, and educational materials designed to help children and teens recognize online risks, make safer choices, and prevent victimization both online and offline.

https://www.missingkids.org/netsmartz/home

This month, consider taking time to:

• Talk with children about online safety and responsible digital behavior.
• Discuss privacy settings, safe communication, and recognizing suspicious activity.
• Encourage children to speak up if something online makes them uncomfortable.
• Explore trusted online safety resources together.

06/02/2026

June is Gun Violence Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of gun violence and the steps we all can take to help keep our communities safe.

Responsible firearm ownership plays an important role in preventing tragedies. Safe practices such as securely storing fi****ms, using gun locks or safes, keeping fi****ms out of the reach of children, and ensuring that fi****ms do not fall into the hands of prohibited individuals can help prevent accidental shootings and acts of violence.

Preventing gun violence is a shared responsibility. Parents, guardians, firearm owners, law enforcement, community organizations, and neighbors all have a role in promoting safety and accountability.

The Fauquier County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office remains committed to protecting public safety, supporting victims of crime, and working with our law enforcement partners and community members to reduce violence and prevent harm.

By promoting responsible firearm practices and looking out for one another, we can help make Fauquier County a safer place for everyone.

05/27/2026

Today, we are proud to welcome Amanda J. Lewis as she took the oath of office as a prosecutor for the Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. Amanda was sworn in by Yvonne Rankin, Chief Deputy Circuit Court Clerk for Fauquier County, and joined by Commonwealth’s Attorney Scott C. Hook.

Amanda was born and raised on a beef cattle farm in Central Kentucky, where she developed a lifelong appreciation for agriculture, hard work, and community. She graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Agricultural Economics and minors in Business and Animal Sciences before earning her law degree from the University of Kentucky College of Law.

After relocating to Virginia, Amanda was admitted to the Bar in 2020 and began practicing family law. In 2022, she discovered her passion for public service and transitioned into local government law.

Amanda joined Fauquier County in 2024 as part of the County Attorney’s Office and transitioned to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office in 2026. Her work focuses on a wide variety of matters involving enforcement of the Fauquier County Code of Ordinances.

Please join us in congratulating Amanda and welcoming her to her new role serving the citizens of Fauquier County! 👏⚖️

05/11/2026

During National Police Week, the Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office proudly recognizes and honors the law enforcement officers who serve and protect our community each day.

We are grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and courage demonstrated by our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. Their commitment to public safety often requires sacrifice, long hours, and service under difficult circumstances, all in support of keeping our community safe.

This week also serves as a solemn reminder to remember and honor the officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. We extend our deepest gratitude to the families who stand behind those who serve.

To all law enforcement officers, thank you for your service, your partnership, and your unwavering commitment to justice and public safety.

05/05/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize that mental health is an essential part of overall well-being for individuals, families, and our entire community.

In the work we do every day, we see firsthand how mental health challenges can intersect with the justice system, impact victims of crime, and affect those accused of offenses. These experiences reinforce an important truth: mental health matters at every stage of life, and support, understanding, and access to resources can make a meaningful difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. There are resources available both locally and nationally:

• Local support and services:
Mental Health Association of Fauquier County (www.fauquier-mha.org) offers education, support programs, and community resources.

• National resource:
Su***de & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential, 24/7 support.

04/24/2026

Yesterday, Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones presented the “Unsung Heroes” Award to individuals across the Commonwealth who serve as a powerful voice for victims of crime. This award is presented annually to individuals who have overcome significant challenges or implemented innovative and effective approaches in support of crime victims.

These honorees represent the very best of public service. Their hard work does not always make headlines, but their contributions are essential to the pursuit of justice. This group of honorees consistently goes above and beyond in their work for our community and, this year, included law enforcement officers, advocates, volunteers and prosecutors.

We are proud to announce that Fauquier County Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Cassandra was selected as an “Unsung Hero” in recognition of her incredible work pursuing justice in numerous cases of intimate partner violence in 2025. Her dedication and belief that survivors should be treated with dignity and respect builds trust and achieves results in the courtroom to make our community a safer place.

Congratulations to Amy and all of the honorees. We thank you for the difference you make every day.

This week, April 19-25 is National Crime Victim’s Rights Week, and we are reminded that to protect victims and serve communities, we must always: Listen. Act. Advocate.

Learn more at: https://victimsofcrime.org/national-crime-victims-rights.../

04/09/2026

April is Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month—a reminder that protecting children starts with strong families and supportive communities.

In our work, we see every day how early support, awareness, and connection can make a lasting difference. Prevention isn’t a single action—it’s a commitment we all share.

If you see something concerning, speak up. Together, we can help create safe, healthy environments where children can grow and thrive. 💙

April is Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month — a time to remember that prevention begins long before harm occurs. This month focuses on making intentional, everyday choices that strengthen families and build supportive communities.

Follow along this month for simple, meaningful ways to help keep children safe, and explore child abuse prevention resources at www.dss.virginia.gov/family/prevention/cap/index.cgi.

04/07/2026

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

What is sexual violence?

Sexual violence is any sexual activity where consent is not obtained or freely given. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities—regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Often, the person responsible is someone the victim knows. This may include a friend, current or former partner, coworker, neighbor, or family member.

Sexual violence can happen in many ways. This includes sharing or posting intimate images without consent.

This month—and every month—we stand with victims and survivors and remain committed to seeking justice.