October 22nd, 2026 NORFOLK, Virginia - Virginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas walked out of federal court in Norfolk on Thursday after her first appearance on racketeering, drug trafficking and money laundering charges. The government declined to request detention and she was released on her own recognizance. Lucas, 82, surrendered to authorities, U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said during a news conference in Norfolk Thursday. Six others were also in custody in connection with the alleged scheme, which prosecutors said involved family members and close associates. She was indicted alongside her daughters, Lisa Lucas-Burke and Theresa Lucas-Lamb, and grandson, Ryan Eichelberger, in addition to other co-defendants Video by Zach D Roberts | Licensing @FreedomNTV [email protected]