A 16-year-old charged with stabbing a Fairfax County police officer has been released from custody, sparking outrage from law enforcement officials.
The teenager, who was charged with malicious wounding, was released by Fairfax County Judge Michael Sprano on Tuesday.
The incident occurred in early February, when the teenager allegedly stabbed a six-year veteran police officer, leaving them hospitalized.
The officer's injuries were severe, and Fairfax County Police Department's Chief of Police Kevin Davis said that the officer "avoided a fatal stabbing by maybe an inch."
Chief Davis expressed his disappointment and frustration with the judge's decision, stating that "the criminal justice system must do better."
He emphasized that the release of the teenager falls short of detaining an offender who posed a significant threat to the safety of law enforcement officers.
"Our police officers deserve better," Chief Davis said. "They put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve our community, and it's unacceptable that someone who has allegedly committed such a violent crime is being released back into the community."
The decision to release the teenager has raised concerns about the safety of police officers and the community at large.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in dealing with violent offenders, particularly juveniles who are accused of committing serious crimes.
The Fairfax County Police Department has not released any further information about the case, citing the ongoing investigation.
However, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for tougher laws and stricter penalties for those who commit violent crimes against law enforcement officers.