The Town of Purcellville is currently under the spotlight as a criminal investigation has been authorized into the actions of Vice Mayor Carl “Ben” Nett. Bob Anderson, the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Loudoun County, communicated this significant development in a memo addressed to Mayor Christopher Bertaut and the members of the Town Council on April 21, 2025.

According to the memo, the Office of the Attorney General has granted permission for the Virginia State Police to conduct the investigation. Given the sensitive nature of the matter, Anderson emphasized the importance of preserving all records from the Purcellville Police Department (PPD). This includes a comprehensive range of documents, such as personnel records, which are required to be maintained in compliance with the Virginia Public Records Act, specifically under section 42.1-88.

Furthermore, Anderson recommended that Vice Mayor Nett be restricted from accessing any records related to the PPD and from voting on matters involving the department. He also advised that Nett should not attend any meetings where discussions regarding the PPD are taking place. 

This situation adds a layer of complexity to the governance of the town, prompting close attention from both council members and the community as the investigation unfolds. The implications of this investigation are significant, and residents of Purcellville will be closely monitoring developments as they arise.