At approximately 2:21 PM, Danville Police responded to Wal Mart 515 Mt Cross Rd for a report of a shoplifting offense.
After the investigation, two females and a male were arrested for shoplifting. One female and the male cooperated and were released on a summons. One female did not cooperate. She actively resisted and was taken into custody.
There is a video posted on social media, and it only shows a small section of the event. We have released on social media both our BWC (Body Worn Camera) footage and Wal Mart’s security footage that shows the incident in more detail and from different angles. At no point during this incident did a Danville Police Officer have their knee on the suspect’s head, neck, or upper body. There were no physical injuries due to this incident. This use of force incident will be reviewed per our department policy.
Vania Denise Anderson, age 22 of Danville, was charged with assault on a police officer, resisting arrest and shoplifting. Viana is currently in the Danville City Jail under a $2,500.00 secured bond.
REF: Virginia State Code 18.2-57 – Assault and Battery on Police Officer (Felony x 2)
REF: Virginia State Code 18.2-460 – Obstruction (Misdemeanor)
REF: Virginia State Code 18.2-103 – Larceny (Shoplifting - Misdemeanor)
The police investigation is continuing.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Danville Crimestoppers at (434) 793-0000, or via our crime tips line on your computer at crimetips@ci.danville.va.us. Information given will remain confidential.
Citizens who contact Crimestoppers by telephone may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.