News
December 03, 2025
Former broadband authority head loses appeal in case against Botetourt County adminstrator
The Virginia Court of Appeals upheld the Circuit Court's judgement that Botetourt County Administrator Gary Larrowe could not be subject to personal liability for his conduct.
**Former Broadband Authority Head Loses Appeal in Case Against Botetourt County Administrator**
A legal battle between a former leader of Botetourt County's broadband authority and the county's top administrator has concluded with a ruling in favor of the administrator. The Virginia Court of Appeals has upheld a previous Circuit Court decision, stating that Botetourt County Administrator Gary Larrowe cannot be held personally liable for his actions in an unspecified matter.
The case stems from a disagreement between the former broadband authority head and Larrowe, though the specific details of the dispute haven't been publicly released. The initial lawsuit sought to hold Larrowe accountable in his personal capacity, meaning he would be responsible for any damages or penalties awarded, rather than the county government itself.
However, both the Circuit Court and now the Court of Appeals have sided with Larrowe, reinforcing the principle that public officials generally enjoy protection from personal liability when acting within the scope of their official duties. This protection aims to allow administrators to make decisions without fear of constant legal challenges that could hinder effective governance.
The Court of Appeals’ decision effectively ends the legal avenue for the former broadband authority head to pursue personal damages against Larrowe. While the lawsuit's specifics remain unclear, the ruling carries implications for how county administrators in Virginia can operate. It strengthens the established legal precedent protecting public officials from individual liability when performing their jobs.
This outcome underscores the importance of understanding the legal protections afforded to government employees. While accountability is crucial, these protections are designed to ensure public officials can make necessary decisions without the chilling effect of potential personal lawsuits for every action taken. The case highlights the complexities of navigating the intersection of public service, legal responsibility, and individual accountability within local government. The legal proceedings have now concluded, bringing a finality to this dispute within Botetourt County.
A legal battle between a former leader of Botetourt County's broadband authority and the county's top administrator has concluded with a ruling in favor of the administrator. The Virginia Court of Appeals has upheld a previous Circuit Court decision, stating that Botetourt County Administrator Gary Larrowe cannot be held personally liable for his actions in an unspecified matter.
The case stems from a disagreement between the former broadband authority head and Larrowe, though the specific details of the dispute haven't been publicly released. The initial lawsuit sought to hold Larrowe accountable in his personal capacity, meaning he would be responsible for any damages or penalties awarded, rather than the county government itself.
However, both the Circuit Court and now the Court of Appeals have sided with Larrowe, reinforcing the principle that public officials generally enjoy protection from personal liability when acting within the scope of their official duties. This protection aims to allow administrators to make decisions without fear of constant legal challenges that could hinder effective governance.
The Court of Appeals’ decision effectively ends the legal avenue for the former broadband authority head to pursue personal damages against Larrowe. While the lawsuit's specifics remain unclear, the ruling carries implications for how county administrators in Virginia can operate. It strengthens the established legal precedent protecting public officials from individual liability when performing their jobs.
This outcome underscores the importance of understanding the legal protections afforded to government employees. While accountability is crucial, these protections are designed to ensure public officials can make necessary decisions without the chilling effect of potential personal lawsuits for every action taken. The case highlights the complexities of navigating the intersection of public service, legal responsibility, and individual accountability within local government. The legal proceedings have now concluded, bringing a finality to this dispute within Botetourt County.
Category:
Politics