News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | April 2, 2026
Local News
Purchase of ATV leads to arrest in New Kent
A Providence Forge resident who allegedly purchased an all-terrain vehicle without permission from a former employer has been arrested. Erin M. Bierwirth, 33, of the 6700 block of Halstead Lane, was arrested on Sept. 22 on two counts of forgery, and one count each of felony embezzlement, obtaining money by false pretenses, and identity theft. According to the police report, Bierworth worked for Ronald Marshburn and allegedly purchased an ATV valued over $20,000, signing documents without Marshburn’s permission. Bierwirth was being held without bond. In other recent arrests made by New Kent Sheriff’s Office: –Jessy D. Babbitt, 22, currently of…
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Wayne Orrell- Charles City candidate for Commonwealth’s Attorney
Experience- Criminal defense lawyer for 15 years; spent time working with state government and various politicians. Active in service organizations for 20-plus years; local office in Charles City. Reason for running- “I believe we can do better. We have a one-sided system designed for maximum effect and that’s not justice. The Commonwealth’s Attorney needs a balance approach, someone who has experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. I want to make victims of crimes feel empowered and safe and be responsive to the community’s concerns and protect them. Why should people vote for you?- “Because I care. I will…
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Victoria Cox-Washington- Charles City candidate for Circuit Court Clerk
Experience- Ten years working as clerk in general district courts; interaction includes working with judges, police officers, community, and magistrate’s office. Reason for running- “I believe people are wanting a change. I want people to be treated fairly when dealing with issues involving the circuit court. I will represent Charles City in a well-mannered way.” Why should people vote for you?- “I will provide quality customer service, professionalism, and a friendly environment that will be available to citizens of the county.”
Vance Richards- Charles City candidate for Sheriff
Experience- Twenty-four years of law enforcement with prior supervisor experience; former Charles City deputy. Reason for running- “I love Charles City and I love those who reside in it. All I want to do is provide them with a more advanced sheriff’s office with integrity and community-based policing.” Why should people vote for you?- “I have more experience than all the other candidates and will run the sheriff’s department with honesty and integrity. I will hold myself and deputies accountable for all actions they take.”
Steve Fuhrmann- Charles City candidate for School Board, At-large
Experience- Completing a four-year term on current school board. Doctorate in education; has worked with public schools and been effectively involved with monitoring achievements of Charles City schools. Reason for running- “I want to keep the forward momentum of academic leadership. I believe that the support the board has given to our new school and administrative leadership will grow with a collaborative effort.” Why should people vote for you?- “I believe I’ve been a spark plug for positive changes. I want to continue that momentum and I’m dedicated to the improvement of education for kids. Our expectations are high and…
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Sherri Bowman- Charles City candidate for Board of Supervisors, District 2
Experience- Former member of Charles City’s Board of Supervisors; currently works in Charles City treasurer’s office as chief deputy treasurer. Reason for running- “I love Charles City and the people. I can make a difference in the lives of my community. With my strong involvement in groups and civic organizations, it gives me a true pulse of needs and issues of the citizens.” Why should people vote for you?- “It is my desire for Charles City to prosper in new businesses and job creation, excel in student population and self-sufficient emergency services. I am the best candidate because my previous…
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Sandra Hunkele- Charles City candidate for Circuit Court Clerk
Experience- Eighteen years of court experience including juvenile, general district, and in magistrate’s office. Currently serving as chief deputy clerk of Charles City Circuit court. Reason for running- “I love the job. I want to bring my experience, organizational skills, and interaction with the community to the position. I believe in modernizing the court to make it easier to help others.” Why should people vote for you?- “I have been serving as chief deputy clerk for eight years. I believe I have established relationships with the community and I believe I have the capability to make the smooth transition into…
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Royce Paige- Charles City candidate for School Board, District 1
Editor’s note- Royce Paige has not submitted any information to the Chronicle as of this time. Once information has been received, we will update this election preview.
Rob Tyler- Charles City candidate for Commonwealth’s Attorney
Experience- Completing eighth year as Charles City Commonwealth’s Attorney. Has 11½ years of experience in position; handled thousands of cases representing Commonwealth and has worked as court-appointed defense attorney. Reason for running- “I am totally invested in this job and the community. I have lived here for 20 years and I believe I have a lot to contribute to the community and continue to serve them. I believe in my first two terms that I have done good work representing the interests of people of Charles City in criminal courts. Why should people vote for you?- “Representing the Commonwealth is…
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Mindy Bradby- Charles City candidate for Treasurer
Experience- Thirteen years working in the Charles City treasurer’s office, including serving the last four years as county treasurer. Reason for running- “I love serving the citizens of Charles City County. I want to be able to help them anyway I can and provide them all the services they need through the treasurer’s office.” Why should people vote for you?- “Because I will continue to serve people with honesty, integrity, and accountability. I will continue to represent the treasurer’s office in a respectable manner.”
