Suspended Martinsville Mayor LC Jones said Tuesday he plans to seek reelection as legal proceedings tied to his removal continue and prosecutors seek action from state officials.
“Driven by numerous citizen calls and the formation of a dedicated citizen-led committee urging me to seek reelection, I can no longer deny the powerful will of the people. Although I haven’t spoken publicly about it, I have notified the committee that I will seek reelection,” Jones said.
Jones was suspended from his seat on Martinsville City Council by order of retired Martinsville Circuit Court Judge G. Carter Greer on Feb. 23 after Martinsville Commonwealth’s Attorney Patrick Flinn found sufficient grounds to proceed with a petition seeking Jones’ removal.
The case now awaits action at the state level after Flinn’s formal request last week that Attorney General Jay Jones be appointed special prosecutor for both criminal and civil matters involving current and former Martinsville City Council members and city administration.
Flinn also requested that the Virginia State Police be assigned to investigate and that Gov. Abigail Spanberger support the request.
The previously appointed special prosecutor, Bedford County Commonwealth’s Attorney Wes Nance, has since been appointed a Circuit Court judge and is seeking to withdraw from the case, Flinn wrote.
“It is my understanding that the Virginia State Police are investigating that case for Mr. Nance, and they have yet to complete their investigation,” Flinn wrote.
“The Commonwealth, Mr. L.C. Jones, and the people of Martinsville are asking for your assistance, Mr. Attorney General and Madam Governor,” he added.
As of this week, Flinn said he is awaiting a response from state officials.
