The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) — The Covington City Council convened a tense and emotional work session Tuesday evening in the wake of a controversial incident involving law enforcement at one of the Alleghany Cougars’ recent football games. Citizens voiced deep concerns about policing practices, community trust, and growing racial divides as calls mounted for greater accountability and a renewed commitment to unity.
The meeting opened with procedural formalities before swiftly shifting to citizen comments, with Greg Rice of Oak Street being the first to speak.
Rice addressed the council regarding Sheriff Moore’s alleged use of force during the aforementioned football game. Rice contended that the sheriff’s actions violated a state law prohibiting neck restraints. Rice stated, “You’ll see that the sheriff’s hand is around Ricky’s neck,” asserting he saw pictures showing contact that contradicted unspecified official statements. Rice further suggested that the subsequent State Police investigation lacked impartiality, claiming the agency had prior ties to the sheriff.
Karen Jordan, sister of Richard Jordan, spoke next, addressing not only the incident but also the wider impact on the city. She refuted rumors that her brother was intoxicated at the game, stating, “He went to work, came home, took a shower, and went to his son’s game. People saying he was intoxicated is not true.”
Jordan emphasized her family’s deep roots in Covington and her evolving sense of discomfort in the community.
“I see a change and not a good one. We’re not pulling together anymore. We’re kind of pulling apart. It’s my race and your race, and I see it on a daily basis in my job at a gas station, you know. … The first chance I get, I’m leaving because I’m not comfortable here anymore, and I love this town.” Her comments were both a call for unity and a statement of sorrow for the sense of belonging she feels is slipping away, underscoring the emotional weight this incident and subsequent community discussions have placed on Alleghany residents.
Marie Fitzpatrick, a long-time resident, addressed the council with a focus on continued engagement.
“What I want to do—I want to have a conversation, and that requires interaction. So even upon leaving here tonight, I still want to continue to have the reception.” Fitzpatrick spoke of her decades in Covington and the importance of knowing one’s neighbors, suggesting that regular participation in community meetings was part of the solution. “I am not originally from Covington, but I’ve lived here most of my life … I think I know everybody here.” Fitzpatrick also offered her support for Richard Jordan and echoed the desire for transparency and change in both policing and community relations.
It’s important to note that shortly after this incident Sheriff Moore denied using excessive force defended his actions as reasonable to subdue Jordan who was allegedly being disruptive and refusing to comply with lawful demands.
Mayor Forbes, after thanking everyone who came forward to comment, moved on to Allen Dressler and his city manager’s report.
Dressler addressed the city council and community with gratitude and determination, outlining ongoing and future initiatives intended to enhance Covington’s livability. He began by acknowledging the city’s efforts to address infrastructure, including the successful repair of a major sinkhole with the help of local contractors and the completion of the Princeton Drive water line project, emphasizing the importance of timely completion before winter. Highlighting the work of city employees and contractors, he noted community satisfaction with improvements to public spaces, especially the mid-city mall parking lot and wayfinding signage that helps residents and visitors navigate Covington more easily.
Further, Dressler mentioned innovative projects like the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, intended to spur downtown business by encouraging longer visits. Celebrating community spirit, he cited successful events such as the homecoming parade, fall harvest decorations, and fall clean-up, which removed over 130 tons of unwanted items. He commended employees for their dedication, particularly during city-wide clean-up and recreation initiatives.
Administrative updates included upcoming infrastructure repairs, the hydrant flushing schedule, and consideration of city meeting dates. He closed by expressing appreciation for staff and citizens alike, affirming that city leadership is committed to the welfare and unity of the community.
While the meeting did not result in a specific course of action, the council members were left with clear demands from the public. Many left without the answers or sense of closure they sought but with the hope that by speaking openly and demanding action, Covington could chart a course back toward mutual respect and trust. The Covington City Council is expected to revisit these topics during its next meeting, with community organizers gearing up to ensure that the issue remains front and center.
To view the livestream of Covington Work Session on Virginian Review Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1789ZMoSYW/
