The unusual saga of Brian Starnes, a man who allegedly walked hundreds of miles only to settle into a stranger’s home and their pantry, recently concluded with a peculiar plea deal that mandates his return to Tennessee.

Starnes, 33, became the subject of local law enforcement attention on July 18, 2024, when an Albemarle County family discovered him shirtless in their kitchen, having apparently cooked, dined, and even consumed beverages during their absence, an audacious act of home invasion.

His case presented a unique challenge to the local judiciary, with initial judges expressing concern over the potential burden Starnes might pose on Virginia’s resources given his transient status and lack of local support.

Ultimately, a resolution was reached: a judge approved a deal requiring Starnes to promptly vacate Central Virginia by 10 p.m. Friday, ensuring his departure from the Commonwealth.

Public defender Hayley Setear highlighted the underlying issues, observing during the hearing that “There’s been a concern about tying him to Charlottesville where he has no support,” emphasizing the legal system’s consideration of his social circumstances.

The incident left a lasting impact on the victim, Julie Montross, who described Starnes making off with a pair of her tennis shoes and shared the lingering trauma experienced by her then six-year-old daughter, who remains haunted by the incursion.

“We’re pleased to be putting this behind us, especially the requirement that he leave Charlottesville,” Montross told The Daily Progress, also expressing a broader hope that Starnes would receive the necessary resources for rehabilitation, underscoring the complex interplay between criminal justice and societal welfare.