The assault charge against Ronald Young has now been dismissed with prejudice, following recent developments in the case.
The charge had already been dismissed without prejudice at a hearing earlier this month—meaning the Commonwealth could have re-indicted Young at a later date should they find good reason to do so—but Commonwealth’s Attorney Stephanie Bolen informed the court Monday that she was moving to dismiss it with prejudice, after the recent death of the victim in the case.
A warrant had alleged that on July 26, 2022, Young caused injury to Herbert Wharton by striking him several times on the head, causing injuries that required surgery. Wharton then allegedly confronted Young and shot him in the hand and shot 65-year old Kathy Jackson in the leg with a rifle during an incident on a lot between East Third and Fourth Street.
The Commonwealth also moved to dismiss the case against Wharton as well, with Judge Andrew Self granting both motions.