Tenant Eviction Process in Virginia

[David Cable]

I want to pre-empt this post by stating that I understand that any information provided is done so for discussion and informational purposes only, I will not take anything written as legal counsel so please speak freely....

I purchased my first multifamily property in March and assumed the tenants with the property, only one tenant having a lease that transfered over; fortunately all tenants minus one are of good standing.  After my management company caught the trouble tenant stealing power from a temporarily vacant unit, I waited until the first of the next month (a few days later), collected rent from the tenant, and contacted the power company to correct the issue.  Having no security deposit nor a lease with this tenant I requested that he depart by the end of the month and I would pro rate the rent upon his departure.  The power company has not reconnected power to the unit as he is unwilling to pay for it since I have taken ownership(his choice I guess) and the tenant now is 12 days overdue on rent.  A couple days ago one of the property management staff found a new meter providing power to the unit (I can only assume that he stole this meter from a nearby building) and again contacted the power company to discontinue the illegal connection.  The tenant has stated that noone is going to remove him from the property.  I am concerned about the condition of the property once he is finally pulled out of by the sheriff's office following the eviction.  

What recourse do I have against the tenant?  How do I collect funds from an individual who is not only a burden on me but the state as well (welfare recipient)? I would like to collect for the missed rent, probable damage to the unit as well as legal fees.  Is there any way the state will garnish the monthly welfare checks?  How is an individual held accountable when he receives money for nothing but refuses to pay debts incurred?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you Bigger Pockets!