Roanoke Arrest Controversy, Food Aid Cutbacks & VA Payday Loan Scams | WFIR News 3/31/25

WFIR News Express for Monday, March 31, 2025 – A fast, ad-free local newscast for the Roanoke Valley and beyond.🎧 In Today’s Episode:• **Roanoke Arrest Controversy** – A mother says her son, who is hearing-impaired, was traumatized after being arrested outside her daycare. Police say he was resisting arrest. • **Feeding Southwest Virginia Faces Crisis** – Emergency food assistance programs are paused, and local pantries could feel the effects. • **Payday Loan Scams Return to Virginia** – Out-of-state fintech lenders are skirting state laws. • **Botetourt County Arrest Update**, **Melrose Library Shooting Investigation**, and **Roanoke Boater Rescue** • **Political News** – UVA’s Larry Sabato weighs in on the Signal chat leak and potential fallout. • **Virginia Tech Ends DEI Office** – Reaction from state leaders and what this means for higher education. • **Economic Update** – Virginia’s unemployment rate edges up slightly to 3.1%. • **New City Website** – Roanoke launches onboard.roanokeva.gov to simplify public service applications.📍 Covering local and statewide stories other Roanoke Valley outlets miss — all in under 15 minutes. 📱 No ads. No filler. Just the news you need, when you need it.—👂 Subscribe & follow WFIR News Express for daily updates. 🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your news. 🌐 Visit WFIRNews.com for more coverage.