Virginia § 18.2-478 - Escape from jail or custody by force or violence without setting fire to jail; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 18.2-478 — Escape from jail or custody by force or violence without setting fire to jail; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.2-478. Escape from jail or custody by force or violence without setting fire to jail; penalty
If any person lawfully imprisoned in jail and not tried or sentenced on a criminal offense escapes from jail by force or violence, other than by setting fire thereto, or if any person lawfully in the custody of any law-enforcement officer, as defined in § 18.2-57, on a charge of criminal offense escapes from such custody by force or violence, he is guilty of a Class 6 felony.
Code 1950, § 18.1-289; 1960, c. 358; 1975, cc. 14, 15; 1985, c. 555; 2025, cc. 38, 41.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 18.2-478
What does Code of Virginia § 18.2-478 cover?
Section 18.2-478 ("Escape from jail or custody by force or violence without setting fire to jail; penalty") 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 § 18.2-478?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 18.2-478" (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 § 18.2-478 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.