Streetlights at both VCU locations shut off for first-ever campus-wide Purge

by | Jan 22, 2015 | POLITICS

Last night, streetlights on both the Monroe Park and Medical Campuses of Virginia Commonwealth University were shut off for the first annual VCU Purge.


Last night, streetlights on both the Monroe Park and Medical Campuses of Virginia Commonwealth University were shut off for the first annual VCU Purge.

“The first purge night in Central Richmond was a rousing success,” said VCU Police Chief John Vanuti. “The excitement and involvement for the one night of consequence-free crime should create a uniquely peaceful environment for the rest of the year.”

In anticipation of the night of endless killing and no public services, the crime rate fell dramatically over the past few months. The idea of shutting down the streetlights as well as the public services was called a stroke of genius by the chief himself.

“Yes, it was my idea to shut off the streetlights,” said Vanuti, laughing. “Of course, we don’t want to encourage crime, we just want one night to sit back and do nothing about it.” He went on to explain that a simple cost-saving measure, like turning off the streetlights, can help remove some weaker-willed students from the mix.

“I had a lot of fun last night,” said VCU freshman Izla Burkholder. “I got my ex-girlfriend back pretty good for cheating on me.” Burkholder smiled as she recounted the tale of murdering her ex-girlfriend and her ex-girlfriend’s new partner in cold blood.

Other students didn’t fare so well, however. “I spent the whole night curled up with my boyfriend and best friend hoping not to be hurt,” said Audri Bareikis, a VCU junior. “I can’t believe this is allowed by law and written into our constitution.”

The news, however, was not all bad. Local security firms and weapons dealers were delighted with the increase in sales in anticipation of one night of consequence-free murder and burglary.

The chief did recall some rule violations that he hoped would not occur again next year, when the area is more familiar with the regulations surrounding the Purge.

“There were a few reports of people using Class 4 Weapons, or extreme explosives,” said Vanuti. “Of course, those reports are unconfirmed, because there’s no fucking way I’m going out in the middle of that.”

Brad Kutner

Brad Kutner

Brad Kutner is the former editor of GayRVA and RVAMag from 2013 - 2017. He’s now the Richmond Bureau Chief for Radio IQ, a state-wide NPR outlet based in Roanoke. You can reach him at BradKutnerNPR@gmail.com




more in politics

Dr. Danny Avula is Richmond’s New Mayor

In January, Dr. Danny Avula will make history as the first immigrant to serve as mayor of Virginia's capital. Avula clinched the Richmond mayoral race by winning six of the city's nine districts, showcasing strong, widespread support. His decisive lead across key...

Did Tavares Floyd Mislead RVA Magazine and the Richmond Community?

In June, we interviewed Tavares Floyd, then an emerging candidate in the Richmond 6th District City Council race, during which he announced his run to us for the first time. Floyd came forward as a passionate advocate for systemic reform, connecting his political...

Photos | Richmond Halloween Parade 2024 by Michael Simon

The Richmond Halloween Parade returned for its 19th year, hosted by All The Saints Theater Company. A Richmond tradition, this parade has always been more than just a celebration—it’s a platform for protest. This year's theme, A Funeral March for Silence, served as a...

Richmond Election 2024: Check Out Our Latest Poll Numbers

As we approach Election Day in Richmond, we find ourselves not only voting for new leadership across the board but also nearing the end of our Richmond Elections Reader’s Poll, which has given the RVA Magazine community a platform to voice their...

Letter To The Editor | Why I Voted for Dr. Danny Avula

​Ed. note: This is a letter to the editor, not an endorsement from RVA Magazine. You can vote in our Richmond Elections 2024 Reader's Poll HERE. Friends, I voted early in person this year, and I want to share with you why I voted for Danny Avula for Richmond Mayor. I...