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The Valley Today is a radio show and podcast dedicated to shining a light on the vibrant community leaders and local events that make the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia truly special.  Insightful conversations, engaging stories, and event details connect listeners with the heart and soul of the valley, showcasing its unique culture, initiatives, and people.
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Public Safety Thursday: Social Media Comments vs Reality

Apr 2, 2026

Host Janet Michael welcomes back her most frequent guest, Captain Warren Gosnell of the Frederick County Sheriff's Office, for another Public Safety Thursday conversation. They cover two major topics: Frederick County's new school zone speed camera program and how to navigate police interactions safely and legally.

Topics Covered

🚦 School Zone Speed Cameras

  • Frederick County's camera program launched with a 30-day warning period before violations were issued
  • Three school zones are currently active under the camera system, including Stonewall Elementary on Route 11 (25 mph zone)
  • Violations are processed by a vendor in Chattanooga, TN, but reviewed and approved by three authorized human deputies within the Frederick County Sheriff's Office — not AI
  • Approximately 18,000 warnings and violations have been processed in the first 45–50 days
  • Violations are voided if signage is not fully in place (e.g., after a windstorm removed a sign)
  • Enforcement threshold begins at 10 mph over the posted school zone speed limit
  • Some repeat offenders were clocked at 15–25 mph over the limit

👮 Police Interactions & Knowing Your Rights

  • Social media and viral videos are fueling misconceptions about what rights people actually have during police encounters
  • In Virginia, motorists are required by law to provide their license when requested by a uniformed officer
  • Officers operate under both discretionary laws and mandatory ("shall") enforcement statutes — they don't always have a choice
  • Example discussed: reckless driving (Class 1 misdemeanor) vs. speeding (traffic infraction) and how discretion works
  • Impounding a vehicle for an unlicensed driver on a second offense is mandatory under Virginia Code 46.2-300
  • If you believe an officer acted improperly, recourse options include: the court system, the agency's chain of command, FOIA requests for body cam/dash cam footage, and public platforms
  • Key message: comply with lawful directives first, then pursue recourse — don't escalate at the scene

Resources Mentioned