Virginia § 53.1-31.1 - Transportation of prisoners
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 53.1-31.1 — Transportation of prisoners, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53.1-31.1. Transportation of prisoners
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Department shall provide all transportation to and from court for any prisoner in connection with a crime committed within a state correctional facility, including a facility operated pursuant to the Corrections Private Services Act (§ 53.1-261 et seq.), unless the affected sheriff and the Department agree on other transportation. Auxiliary police forces established under § 15.2-1731 who have met the training requirements of § 9.1-102, with the concurrence of the sheriff or other chief law-enforcement officer as appropriate, are specifically authorized to provide such transportation.
B. Authorized corrections personnel from any other state, the United States, and any political subdivisions thereof who transport a prisoner through the Commonwealth, deliver a prisoner to the Commonwealth, or take custody of a prisoner in the Commonwealth for transport to another jurisdiction are deemed to have lawful custody of such prisoner while in the Commonwealth.
C. Authorized Virginia corrections personnel who have a need to travel with a prisoner through or to another state are authorized to travel through such state and retain authority over such prisoner as allowed by such state.
2002, c. 240; 2003, c. 154; 2012, c. 827; 2015, c. 99; 2025, c. 337.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 53.1-31.1
What does Code of Virginia § 53.1-31.1 cover?
Section 53.1-31.1 ("Transportation of prisoners") 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 § 53.1-31.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 53.1-31.1" (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 § 53.1-31.1 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.