Former Virginia Delegate Jay Jones, the Democratic nominee for attorney general, has drawn criticism over a past reckless driving conviction, with state officials questioning his suitability for the role. Court records reveal Jones was convicted of speeding at 116 mph on Interstate 64 in New Kent, Virginia, and paid a $1,500 fine.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin condemned the incident, stating, “The job of attorney general is too important to leave to someone who would recklessly break the law and endanger the lives of others.” He highlighted concerns about Jones’ accountability, noting claims he misled courts by asserting community service was performed for his political operation.

Jones’ campaign acknowledged the mistake, with a statement saying, “Several years ago, I made the mistake of speeding… I accepted responsibility for my actions, paid the fine, and fulfilled my responsibility to the court.” However, details emerged about his alleged attempt to avoid jail time by securing community service credits through his political action committee, Meet our Moment (MOM).

Incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares criticized the arrangement, alleging Jones used a letter from MOM—signed by executive director Lesley Shinbaum Stewart—to exchange 500 hours of “community service” for leniency. Records show MOM, which recruits minority Democratic candidates, and the Virginia NAACP both attested to the service.

Financial disclosures indicate Jones’ campaign paid Shinbaum Stewart’s firm over $100,000 since 2020, with an additional $6,000 payment days after the letter was filed. Virginia law restricts court-ordered community service to non-profits or government agencies, raising questions about MOM’s eligibility as a political action committee.

Shinbaum Stewart and the Jones campaign did not respond to requests for comment.