On January 8, 2026, a status hearing in the case of Commonwealth of Virginia v. Nett/Fraser took place at 1 p.m., heard by Judge Plowman. This case has experienced multiple delays, with the trial date currently undetermined after being rescheduled several times. The initial review hearing was set for September 4, postponed to September 25, and later moved to November 20.
The legal matters originate from a July 23 grand jury indictment against Vice Mayor Carl “Ben” Nett, who is accused of computer trespassing for allegedly misusing his position to access sensitive information on political opponents through the Virginia Criminal Information Network in 2024. Both Nett and Purcellville Town Manager Kwasi Fraser are also facing allegations of conspiracy related to bid-rigging and fraudulent activities in Purcellville during the first half of the year. These charges are classified as Class 6 felonies, which carry potential penalties of one to five years in prison or fines up to $2,500.
The hearing was held to consider a motion for joinder filed by Special Prosecutor Eric Olsen, the Stafford County Commonwealth’s Attorney, seeking to combine the cases. Kwasi Fraser appeared with counsel, while Carl Nett was not present after being advised by his attorney that his attendance was not required.
The hearing lasted approximately five minutes, and Olsen acknowledged his unfamiliarity with local procedures in Loudoun County, which led to his failure to submit a detailed briefing to the court regarding the motion. He suggested rescheduling the hearing to properly address the matter.
The next hearing has been set for February 12 at 1 p.m. Defense attorneys have indicated their opposition to the proposed joinder, with Fraser’s attorney expressing a desire to avoid being tried alongside Nett. It appears Nett’s attorney may seek separate trials: one for the charges he shares with Fraser and another related to the misuse of law enforcement databases. It was noted in court that there could potentially be three separate criminal cases.
No further actions were taken during the hearing, and it remains to be seen whether a trial date will be established in February for the criminal proceedings. Nett’s recall trial is expected to proceed first. Stay tuned to Purcellville News for further updates as the case develops.