Christopher Ross, age 17, committed the fatal error of trying to steal a quarter-pound bag of marijuana from Jacob “Alex” Meadows, a drug dealer operating out of a lovely Virginia Beach suburban house. A witness who lives at the Red Mill residence where Ross was murdered informed authorities that Ross snatched the marijuana bag and fled while Ross and Meadows were in the midst of the transaction in Ross’ bedroom.
According to the witness, Meadows took out a revolver and started shooting while pursuing Ross, a student at Ocean Lakes High School. Ross was hit as he exited the building. His corpse was discovered at the door beside a significant amount of marijuana.
Jacob Meadows, age 23, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and drug charges for the fatal shooting of Christopher Ross. Prosecutors agreed to dismiss murder and gun charges against Meadows and agreed to seek no more than a seven-year prison sentence. But everything changed when Circuit Court Judge Steven Frucci uncovered the defendant’s actions after the plea agreement.
Robert Ross, the elder brother of Christopher Ross, stated at a later hearing that he and other family members chose to remain in the courtroom for a bit and then congregate outside in the corridor to converse. The gang was on their way to the elevators and escalators when they saw Meadows going by.
According to Robert Ross, Meadows grins as he approaches. Ross, surprised by his presence and enraged by his actions, blamed Meadows of “walking up” on him. Ross’ relatives then seized him and dragged him away. As reports indicate, Meadows’ alleged “smirk” sparked a scuffle in the courtroom corridor. Family members of the victim were observed restraining other family members in an effort to halt the confrontation. Disputes were ultimately settled, and officers took both families out individually.
The defendant, Jacob Meadows, who had been out on bail for the last two and a half years and was permitted to stay free until sentencing, testified to explain his actions. According to the article, Meadows said he was glad when he left the courtroom since he was able to return home to be with his kid. The prosecution presented camera evidence obtained in the corridor outside the courthouse at the time of the alleged “smirking” incident.
The judge of the circuit court, Steven Frucci, listened to Meadows’ accusations but was not satisfied that the occurrence was innocent. The judge also termed Meadows’ behavior “abhorrent” and “planned.” Frucci said that courtroom hallway footage proved Meadows did smirk and walk near Ross during the prior hearing.
The judge found Meadows guilty of contempt of court, canceled his release, and ordered Meadows to remain in custody until his sentencing hearing. Judge Frucci, who was apparently incensed by Meadows, recused himself from the sentencing session and said that he would have difficulty accepting this plea bargain. It was also stated that Meadows’ activities might threaten his plea agreement.
The Ross family has addressed the death of a family member. Robert Ross said that the toughest thing is getting up every day and realizing that his little brother has passed away. He also informed reporters that Chris was passionate about playing football. In Virginia Beach, he was a defensive back and wide receiver for Ocean Lakes High School. He loved football; it was his whole existence. Since he could hold a football, they’ve been playing football, he remarked. Chris was also devoted to music, spending many hours in the studio producing and creating music videos.
Regarding Jacob Meadows, he is learning the hard way that actions have repercussions and that some settings need a high level of respect, including legal hearings. Fortunately, the judge was made aware of his unacceptable conduct and held him responsible. We need more judges like Judge Steven Fruccum of the Circuit Court. While the accused is entitled to a fair trial, it is time that the victims be treated as such, as opposed to criminals being treated with child gloves and as if they were the victims.
