Virginia § 19.2-77 - Escape, flight and pursuit; arrest anywhere in Commonwealth
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 19.2-77 — Escape, flight and pursuit; arrest anywhere in Commonwealth, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19.2-77. Escape, flight and pursuit; arrest anywhere in Commonwealth
Whenever a person in the custody of an officer shall escape or whenever a person shall flee from an officer attempting to arrest him, such officer, with or without a warrant, may pursue such person anywhere in the Commonwealth and, when actually in close pursuit, may arrest him wherever he is found. If the arrest is made in a county or city adjoining that from which the accused fled, or in any area of the Commonwealth within one mile of the boundary of the county or city from which he fled, the officer may forthwith return the accused before the proper official of the county or city from which he fled. If the arrest is made beyond the foregoing limits, the officer shall proceed according to the provisions of § 19.2-76, and if such arrest is made without a warrant, the officer shall procure a warrant from the magistrate serving the county or city wherein the arrest was made, charging the accused with the offense committed in the county or city from which he fled and any offense committed during the close pursuit in the county or city where such offense was committed.
Code 1950, § 19.1-94; 1960, c. 366; 1975, c. 495; 1992, c. 881; 2008, cc. 551, 691; 2022, c. 326.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 19.2-77
What does Code of Virginia § 19.2-77 cover?
Section 19.2-77 ("Escape, flight and pursuit; arrest anywhere in Commonwealth") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 19.2-77?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 19.2-77" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 19.2-77 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.