A Virginia Republican, Delegate Carry Coyner, claimed during a 2020 call with Democratic Attorney General Jay Jones that Jones suggested that fewer police officers would lead to fewer deaths overall. Coyner shared these thoughts while discussing a hypothetical situation involving two dictators and former Virginia Speaker Todd Gilbert, in which Jones mentioned Gilbert being shot repeatedly.
Moreover, there are allegations against Jones regarding statements wishing harm on Gilbert’s children. Coyner recounted a past conversation where Jones mentioned before that qualified immunity protections for law enforcement should be reconsidered. This discussion stemmed from heated debates over public policy and qualified immunity, which, as Coyner explained, shields police from civil lawsuits.
Reflecting on Jones’s remark about having said things before, Coyner stated they had extensive discussions about removing these protections. She noted that genuine public safety was at risk, arguing that removing qualified immunity could lead to more chaos rather than better policing. Coyner remarked, “If they have to second-guess their actions during intense situations, it endangers both officers and the public.”
In response, Jones denied making such comments, asserting that he has never wished harm upon law enforcement. Following these revelations, he also requested the resignation of a Norfolk Police lieutenant due to separate allegations of misconduct.
Jones called the reported behavior of the officer “absolutely disgusting” and emphasized the importance of an investigation into the matter. He stated, “If these allegations are true, Officer Kelly must resign immediately.” This call for accountability coincided with the backlash Jones faced regarding his inflammatory comments about Gilbert and his family.
Prominent Republicans, including Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, have urged Jones to withdraw from his attorney general campaign, highlighting that his violent language was unacceptable. Even former President Donald Trump expressed support for Jones’s rival, Jason Miyares, while suggesting Jones reconsider his candidacy.
When confronted about his statements during an interview, Jones conveyed that he felt “deeply, deeply sorry” for what he had said.
