As federal employees return to the office more significantly, the George Washington Regional Commission (GWRC) has observed a substantial increase in commuting interest. Potomac Local News spoke with Kerry McKenney of GWRC and reviewed recent reports highlighting the demand for ridesharing services in the region.

Surge in Commuting Demand

According to GWRC’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program, GWRideConnect, inquiries about ridesharing options have increased substantially. Commuters from Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford are turning to ride-sharing to ease their daily travel.

“We’ve been steadily seeing an increase of people going back to the office, and then it just jumped, jumped a lot,” McKenney said. “A lot of federal workers down here are trying to find a van, trying to find the train. It seems like a lot of people who know where the train and buses are haven’t been calling as much as people looking for vans to areas that maybe the transportation doesn’t go directly to.”

The Role of Vanpools and OmniRide

GWRC functions as the commuter assistance program for the region, helping match riders to appropriate vanpools and other transit options. Vanpools, which are considered a form of transit in Virginia, operate as private-public partnerships with small business owners managing fleets of commuter vans.

“We are the commuter assistance program for the region, and our biggest service is the vanpool matching system. Vanpools are a form of transit in Virginia, but we do a private-public partnership, so the vanpool operators are private companies. They essentially own fleets of vans, maintain them, and rent them out to commuters,” McKenney explained.

OmniRide’s expanded services in Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties have also played a significant role in accommodating the commuter surge. Some OmniRide routes have become so successful that they are reportedly operating at a profit—a rarity in public transportation. “Some of those routes are doing really, really great, and they’re even making a profit,” McKenney noted. “I don’t know how much, but that’s what I’ve heard. Generally, public transportation is a service, not a for-profit thing.”

The Impact of Transportation Infrastructure Expansions

McKenney acknowledged that new transportation developments have influenced commuting patterns. The extension of express lanes on I-95 past Route 3 and the increased presence of commuter buses in the area have made transit options more accessible. “With the new express lanes and expanded bus service, commuters now have more flexibility in planning their routes,” she said. “A lot of interest is in places like the Mark Center in Alexandria, where direct transit options are limited. Vanpools are a great solution for those routes.”

Monitoring Commuter Trends

GWRC regularly tracks commuter lot usage and plans to conduct an additional lot count in early spring to assess changing patterns. “We do an annual commuter lot count, but we’re considering doing another one soon to measure the impact of recent return-to-office policies,” McKenney stated. “After everybody has been sent back and settled into their routines, we may do another count in early spring.”

For additional details on upcoming commuter assistance events and ridesharing options, visit gwrideconnect.org or call 540-373-7665.

Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.

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The Stafford County Board of Supervisors has appointed Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees as the citizen representative for Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed from the board in 2024.

Brown-Page brings experience in human and community relations, having served as a senior manager at the director level within the federal government. She is the President and CEO of JB Associates Enterprise International, LLC, providing mediation, individual and family coaching, and court-ordered co-parenting classes. Additionally, she is a Virginia Supreme Court Certified Mediator/Mentor in multiple court systems, including General District, Circuit, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts.

Her appointment follows the removal of Becelia from the Library Board in a controversial decision that resulted in the formal censure of Stafford County Supervisor Monica Gary. On December 17, 2024, the Board of Supervisors censured Gary by a 5-0 vote with one abstention, citing misleading information that led to Becelia’s removal and violations of the board’s Code of Performance.

Gary was stripped of all board assignments and committee appointments, with the censure resolution alleging her actions were politically motivated in an effort to gain support from the Stafford Democratic Committee for her 2025 re-election bid. Gary, who initially ran as an independent, has since announced that she will not seek re-election when her term ends on December 31, 2025.

Brown-Page’s qualifications extend beyond her mediation work. She holds a Ph.D. in Adult and Continuing Education from Kansas State University, a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Hawaii, and undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Alabama State University. She is also a credentialed professional coach from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and has previously worked as a Mental Health Therapist for Fairfax County’s in-patient treatment program.

A community leader, Brown-Page is involved with the Rappahannock Fredericksburg Rotary Club and has served as the Past District Governor for Rotary District 7610, which covers Northern Virginia, the Northern Neck, and Charlottesville. She was awarded the Rotary International Service Above Self award, given to only 72 individuals worldwide for exemplary service. Her community outreach includes participation in the Fredericksburg Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Oak Grove Baptist Church in Stafford, where she serves as a Deaconess.

Brown-Page, the eldest daughter of Rev. Dr. B.J. Simms—who played a key role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott—continues her family’s legacy of service. She resides in North Stafford with her husband.

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) Board of Trustees comprises dedicated community members appointed by their respective jurisdictions to represent and advocate for their communities. The Board includes representatives from Fredericksburg and the counties of Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland.

The current members of the Board are:

• David Ross (Chair) – Spotsylvania County
• Christy Maupin (Vice Chair) – Westmoreland County
• Kerry Devine – City of Fredericksburg
• Cheryl Miller – City of Fredericksburg
• Lori Hayes – Spotsylvania County
• Pamela Yeung – Stafford County

These trustees collaborate with the CRRL’s Executive Director to establish library policies, adopt budgets, and support library-related legislation at both state and national levels. They also promote the library’s services, programs, and events within their communities.

Maryland Man Convicted of Supplying Drugs to Fredericksburg Trafficker
Sean Shaka Myles Sr., 50, of Baltimore, was convicted for conspiring to distribute cocaine and fentanyl to a Fredericksburg trafficker. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. (Full details)

Stafford Man Convicted for Assaulting Passenger During Flight
Everett Chad Nelson, 44, was found guilty of attacking a sleeping, deaf passenger on a flight to Dulles Airport, causing severe injuries. He faces up to 10 years in prison. (Full details)

Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry & Failing to Register as a Sex Offender
Eliseo Garcia Gordillo, 43, previously convicted of sexual battery in Prince William County, was sentenced to two years in prison for reentering the U.S. and failing to register as a sex offender. (Full details)

Dumfries Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Relief Fraud
Kingsley Apenteng, 40, admitted to falsifying documents to obtain a $149,740 PPP loan, which was later forgiven. He faces up to 20 years in prison. (Full details)

Update – Feb. 7, 2025: Stafford’s Simply Perfect Wedding Expo has been canceled due to inclement weather. The event will be rescheduled to a date yet to be announced, acceding to the organizer, Stafford County Tourism Office.

Original Post – Feb.  4, 2025: The Stafford County Simply Perfect Wedding Expo is coming up on February 8, 2025, at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Fredericksburg! This event is a must for couples planning their big day, featuring top wedding vendors, venues, florists, caterers, photographers, and more—all in one place.

If you’re a wedding professional, vendor opportunities are available, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to connect with engaged couples ready to plan their special day!

• Date: February 8, 2025
• Location: Holiday Inn and Conference Center, 20 Sanford Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
• Registration is required to attend. More details here: Stafford Wedding Expo.

Want to spread the word about your own upcoming event? It’s FREE to submit events to Potomac Local News! Simply fill out this form: Submit an Event. Provide the event name, date, location, and details, and we’ll help share it with the community!

From Prince William County Police Department: 

Fatal Crash Investigation Nokesville Rd. & Sowder Village Sq., Nokesville:  On February 6 at 5:48 AM, crash investigators responded to the area of Nokesville Rd. and Sowder Village Sq. in Nokesville to investigate a fatal pedestrian crash. The investigation revealed that the driver of a 2024 Nissan Sentra was traveling southbound on Nokesville Rd. when the vehicle struck a pedestrian who was attempting to cross the road outside of a crosswalk while wearing dark-colored clothing. The pedestrian was subsequently struck by a 2005 Mazda 6, also traveling southbound on Nokesville Rd.

The pedestrian was transported to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the Nissan was also transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities determined that speed, alcohol, and drug use were not factors for either driver.

Crash investigators are seeking any witnesses to this incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact Prince William County Police.

Identified:

• The deceased pedestrian was identified as Donte Antonio CARTER, 33, of Manassas.
• The driver of the 2024 Nissan Sentra was identified as a 20-year-old woman of Woodbridge.
• The driver of the 2005 Mazda 6 was identified as a 37-year-old man of Stafford.

From Stafford County Sheriff’s Office: 

Suspect Located Using Drone & SWAT Team Taylors Hill Way, South Stafford: On February 6 at 8:08 PM, deputies responded to a disturbance involving a weapon on Taylors Hill Way. Deputies learned that a 29-year-old resident, identified as Franco Charles, was intoxicated and had fired several shots inside the home.

Deputies received conflicting information on whether Charles was still inside the residence or had fled on foot. A drone was deployed into the home, confirming the suspect was not inside. The SWAT Team responded, and drone operators began scanning the surrounding area.

Deputy C.M. Sterne later spotted Charles walking along Truslow Road and issued commands to surrender. Instead of complying, Charles fled into a wooded area. Drone operators immediately focused on the suspect’s last known location and quickly located him in the woods.

Charles was taken into custody and charged with shooting into an occupied dwelling and reckless handling of a firearm. He was transported to the Rappahannock Regional Jail, where he is being held without bond.

Biblical Break-In: During Bible Study Renee Road, Stafford County On February 5 at approximately 7:35 PM, deputies responded to a disturbance on Renee Road that was quickly escalating. The caller, David Campbell, 48, of Stafford, reported his neighbors had double-parked and, rather than addressing the matter with property management, confronted them directly in their residence. Upon seeing a large gathering of people inside, he assumed it was a human trafficking operation and contacted authorities. While speaking with dispatchers, Campbell could be heard taunting and cursing at the neighbors.

Deputies arrived and found Campbell standing in the roadway, displaying signs of intoxication. He complained about the parking issue and demanded that deputies identify everyone in the residence. After speaking with Campbell, deputies made contact with the neighbors, who provided a much different account of the situation.

According to the neighbors, the gathering was a Wednesday night Bible study, which explained the number of attendees. They stated that Campbell forcibly entered the home, nearly striking an ordained minister and threatening to punch another male. Video evidence corroborated their claims.

Campbell was arrested and charged with breaking and entering, assault, and public intoxication. He was transported to the Rappahannock Regional Jail, where he is being held without bond.

DUI Arrest St. Albans Boulevard:  On February 6 at 7:26 PM, Deputy J.J. Holetzky responded to a report of a reckless driver. Upon contact, the driver, a 23-year-old male, was found to be intoxicated. He was charged with DUI and driving without a license and held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.

Fraud Cases

• Chamonix Drive (9:38 AM) – A resident reported that a mailed check never reached its intended destination. The check had been altered and deposited into a fraudulent account.
• Boxwood Drive (1:39 PM) – A resident received a text about a fraudulent purchase. After calling the number in the text, money was fraudulently withdrawn from his account.
• Celebrate Virginia Parkway (1:15 PM) – Deputy A.G. Hart stopped a vehicle for expired registration and an improper lane change. The driver attempted to use a fictitious name but was identified and arrested for false identification, no driver’s license, and traffic violations. He was released on an unsecured bond.

Larceny Reports

• Hatcher’s Run Court (7:55 AM) – A resident reported one vehicle stolen and another damaged. A green Kia Soul was reported stolen and entered into a law enforcement database.
• Corbin’s RV, 348 Kings Highway (9:54 AM) – Employees discovered that catalytic converters had been stolen from four RVs on the lot.

Littering Incident Hartwood (8:13 AM) – A resident awoke to find their property littered with toilet paper and eggs. An 18-year-old suspect was identified and issued a littering warrant.

Public Intoxication Royal Farms, 4 Commerce Parkway (7:36 PM) – Deputy W.E. Trainor IV responded to a disturbance involving a 35-year-old male who was intoxicated and causing issues over missing keys. The suspect was arrested for disorderly conduct and public intoxication and held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.

Don’t miss out on the exciting “Seussical Jr.” performance at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts.

This limited-run show features the classic Dr. Seuss story of Horton the Elephant and his journey to protect the Whos and an egg left in his care. The show runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from February 4 to March 1, 2025, with an additional Saturday show on March 1. Tickets are just $20 per person, and children under three are free.

The Children’s Theatre returns with an amazing performance for all ages! You can even bring your own lunch to enjoy before the show on Tuesday and Thursday performances. Group tickets are available for Tuesday and Thursday shows by calling 540-479-1356, while Saturday matinees can be purchased online or by calling 540-370-4300.

Do you have a local event to share? It’s FREE to submit your event to our site! Just follow this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Simply fill out the form, and your event could be featured in our upcoming listings.

The North Stafford High School (NSHS) Band is hosting its annual fundraiser dinner February 7, featuring live music, homemade pasta, and a silent auction. The event will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature the North Stafford Jazz Ensemble, made up of 24 student musicians from the school’s band program.

The fundraiser is organized by the NSHS Band Booster Organization, which is made of parents of band members. It aims to raise essential funds that will directly support the band program and be used to support purchasing music, equipment, and providing instruction.

140 students participate in NSHS’s band program across various ensembles. Students can participate in the Big Blue Marching Band, three concert bands, a percussion ensemble and the jazz ensemble.

The highlight of the evening will be a performance by the North Stafford Jazz Ensemble, a group known for its dynamic mix of musical genres. From smooth jazz to upbeat rock and roll, the  ensemble will showcase their talents with a wide range of musical styles to keep the audience entertained throughout the evening.

In addition to pasta dishes made and served by students, a silent auction will also be held, featuring a variety of items donated to support the cause.

Tickets for the event are $15, with free admission for children under 4 years old. Discounts are available for seniors, staff, military personnel, and small businesses through email.

 

Prince William County Police Department

Armed Robbery in Woodbridge
On February 3 at 4:03 p.m., officers responded to the Orchard Mills Apartments in the 3200 block of Blazer Loop, Woodbridge, for a robbery report.

A U.S. Postal Service worker reported that while delivering mail, an unknown man approached him and implied he had a weapon before grabbing a key chain and fleeing. The postal worker left the area and contacted police. No injuries were reported.

The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6’0” tall, in his 30s, with a full beard and mustache, wearing all-black clothing.

Manassas area Domestic Strangulation – Suspect Wanted

On February 2 at 1:58 p.m., officers responded to the TGM Sudley Crossing Apartments in the 10800 block of Gambril Drive near Manassas for a domestic assault.

The investigation revealed that a 28-year-old woman and a family member, identified as Masihullah Rahmati, 31, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. Rahmati allegedly struck the victim multiple times before grabbing her neck. The victim was treated at a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Rahmati left the scene before officers arrived. He is currently wanted for strangulation and domestic assault & battery.

Suspect Description: White male, 5’4”, 180 lbs., black hair, brown eyes
Last Known Address: 10800 block of Gambril Drive, Manassas

Anyone with information on Rahmati’s whereabouts is urged to contact police.

Manassas area Domestic Strangulation – Arrest Made
On February 2 at 10:11 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 6600 block of River Ford Court, near Manassas for a domestic assault.

The investigation revealed that a 23-year-old woman was involved in an altercation with a family member, identified as Waleed Ahmad Sadozai, 27. During the dispute, Sadozai allegedly pushed the victim down and grabbed her neck.

Sadozai was arrested and charged with strangulation and domestic assault & battery.

Court Date: Pending
Bond: $1,000 Unsecured

Teenagers Charged with Distributing THC Gummies at Potomac High School
On January 24 and 29, the School Resource Officer (SRO) at Potomac High School in Dumfries investigated two separate incidents where students were found in possession of THC-infused gummies.

The investigation revealed that two female students, aged 14 and 16, brought the gummies to school with the intent to distribute them. Several students who consumed the gummies experienced adverse reactions and required hospital treatment.

The two juveniles were charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Their court dates are pending.

Prince William County Police Department Tipline: (703) 792-7000
Submit a Web Tip: pwcva.gov/policetip

Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

Anvil Attacker Arrested

A 48-year-old Stafford man was arrested on February 2 after allegedly assaulting an individual with a wooden slat.

At 11:51 a.m., Deputy N.D. Fonseca responded to Anvil Road for an assault report. Upon arrival, the deputy found the victim with injuries to his head and arm. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

According to witnesses, the suspect and the victim had been traveling together when the suspect began acting erratically and accused the victim of stealing his property. A verbal argument ensued, escalating into a physical altercation in the roadway. During the fight, Berryman reportedly picked up a discarded wooden slat and struck the victim before fleeing the scene.

A warrant for malicious wounding was obtained for Marcellus Berryman, and deputies later discovered he had a similar warrant out of Maryland. Later that night, at approximately 9:52 p.m., First Sergeant D.W. Fetterolf and Deputy C.A. Osborn spotted Berryman driving in the area of Short Street. With the assistance of Sergeant E.E. West, Deputy S.T. Myers, and his K-9 partner, Gunner, deputies conducted a high-risk traffic stop at Fredericksburg Tattoo Works, located at 348 Warrenton Road.

Police said Berryman was driving on a revoked license and was taken into custody without further incident. He has been charged with malicious wounding and driving on a revoked license. He is currently being held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Assault at Monarch Court
At approximately 4:59 p.m. on February 2, Deputy J.J. Holetzky responded to Monarch Court for an assault. The victim reported that while playing “chuck it” with his dog, an unknown male approached aggressively. The suspect assaulted the victim and attempted to kick his dog. The victim was able to defend himself using a dog toy, forcing the attacker to walk away without further incident.

The suspect remains unidentified, and the investigation is ongoing.

Juvenile Assault at Domino’s Pizza
Deputy K.F. Bierfeldt responded to the Domino’s at 2606 Richmond Highway at approximately 6:31 p.m. on February 2 after reports of a disturbance. The juvenile victim reported being assaulted by a former friend. The altercation, which resulted in damage to the business, was captured on security footage.

Bystanders intervened to separate the two juveniles. Deputy Bierfeldt later located the suspect and submitted criminal complaints for assault and battery and destruction of property.

Fraudulent Returns at Walmart
At approximately 3:51 p.m. on February 2, Deputy C.M. Sterne responded to Walmart at 11 Village Parkway for a fraud report. Store staff reported that a known male had been making fraudulent returns in multiple locations along the East Coast, including Stafford.

Surveillance footage confirmed the suspect had returned tampered-with external hard drives in exchange for refunds. The investigation is ongoing.

Purse Stolen in Walmart Parking Lot
Deputy T.K. Phillips responded to Walmart at 217 Garrisonville Road at approximately 1:07 p.m. on February 3 for a reported larceny. The victim stated she left her purse in her vehicle while shopping. Upon returning, she discovered it had been stolen.

Deputies are reviewing security footage and urge anyone with information to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.

Contact Information
Anyone with information regarding the incidents listed in this report is encouraged to contact:

Stafford County Sheriff’s Office: (540) 658-4450
Twitter: @staffcosheriff
Facebook: Stafford Sheriff
Instagram: @StaffordSheriff