Virginia § 18.2-145.1 - Damaging or destroying research farm product; penalty; restitution

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 18.2-145.1 — Damaging or destroying research farm product; penalty; restitution, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 18.2-145.1. Damaging or destroying research farm product; penalty; restitution

A. Any person or entity that (i) maliciously damages or destroys any farm product, as defined in § 3.2-4709, and (ii) knows the product is grown for testing or research purposes in the context of product development in conjunction or coordination with a private research facility or a baccalaureate institution of higher education or any federal, state, or local government agency is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor if the value of the farm product was less than $1,000, or a Class 6 felony if the value of the farm product was $1,000 or more.

B. The court shall order the defendant to make restitution in accordance with § 19.2-305.1 for the damage or destruction caused. For the purpose of awarding restitution under this section, the court shall determine the market value of the farm product prior to its damage or destruction and, in so doing, shall include the cost of: (i) production, (ii) research, (iii) testing, (iv) replacement, and (v) product development directly related to the product damaged or destroyed.

2001, cc. 547, 572; 2018, cc. 764, 765; 2020, cc. 89, 401.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 18.2-145.1

What does Code of Virginia § 18.2-145.1 cover?

Section 18.2-145.1 ("Damaging or destroying research farm product; penalty; restitution") 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 § 18.2-145.1?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 18.2-145.1" (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 § 18.2-145.1 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.