ISLE OF WIGHT
The ex-chief of Windsor Police was sentenced in Isle of Wight County Circuit Court on Monday. Arlis “Vic” Reynolds had been inexplicably fired and later arrested on embezzlement-related charges.

“We took a plea,” attorney Jack Randall said afterward about his client’s case. “Vic was very heartfelt in his apology and he took responsibility.”

In addition to the defendant’s personal testimony, the judge heard from Reynolds’ mother and Chief Kevin Lands of Halifax Police.

Sharon Jones, clerk of the circuit court, confirmed that the judge sentenced Reynolds to a total of 12 months in jail, all suspended on condition of good behavior. A restitution of $3,815 is to be paid to the Town of Windsor. Randall said that all but $200 and change has already been presented.

Reynolds, who had been the police chief for approximately three years, was informed in December 2013 that his services were no longer required. Neither Town Manager Michael Stallings nor Town Attorney Wallace Brittle would comment then; Stallings said on Tuesday that he still did not want to speak on the matter.

But their concerns were turned over to the Virginia State Police for investigation, which found enough evidence to issue warrants for his arrest in September.

The court records show that Reynolds had previously pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in October. The original charges were embezzlement and obtaining money under false pretenses as felonies, but these were downgraded to misdemeanors.

Court costs total $510, and the fine for each count is $2,500.

Randall said the judge also required his client to serve 160 community service hours, and Chief Lands will monitor that time.

Meanwhile, First Sgt. Rodney “Dan” Riddle serves as interim police chief in Windsor. Stallings said the search for a permanent department leader will soon be started. He anticipates that Riddle will apply for the position.

Since the incident, Reynolds has been working as a stand-up comedian.