Zequez Deaairo Jones v. Commonwealth of Virginia

McCullough, judge.

Zequez Deaairo Jones challenges his conviction for reckless handling of a firearm. He argues that the evidence failed to prove that the object in question was a firearm as contemplated by Code § 18.2-56.1. We agree and reverse his conviction.

BACKGROUND

Sung-11 Lee, the manager of Short’s Grocery, observed a group of young men enter the store. The time was about 9:30 p.m., and it was dark outside. Lee recognized appellant because he was one of the store’s regular customers. One of the men took an item and walked out without paying for it. Lee went outside and called out for…