PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) — A Chesterfield County man who was arrested and charged for sexual assault and physical abuse last year is now facing similar charges in Petersburg for allegedly sexually assaulting a child.
In August of 2023, Chesterfield County Police Department officers arrested Matthew Kirkland for allegedly raping a woman.
Kirkland was initially charged in Chesterfield with rape, abduction and attempted strangulation, among other charges. In November of 2023, a trial date was set for 2024. However, court records revealed that the trial date was moved in January.
According to arrest warrants obtained by 8News, Kirkland is now facing similar charges for allegedly sexually assaulting a child in Petersburg in the summer of 2018.
On Thursday, Feb. 22, Kirkland was transported from Chesterfield to the Juvenile and Domestic Relations courtroom in Petersburg, where he is now facing another two charges — forcible sodomy and sexual assault of a child.
8News spoke with the family of the alleged victim, who say they have searched for justice for over two years.
In court today, Kirkland’s attorney requested more time in the case. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 25th. For now, Kirkland is being held at Riverside Regional Jail without bond.
8News reached out to the attorneys on both sides and did not receive a comment.
