It is well-established that circumstantial evidence is just as competent and entitled to as much weight as direct evidence, provided it is sufficiently convincing to exclude every reasonable hypothesis except that of guilt. Whether an alternative hypothesis of innocence is reasonable is a question of fact, binding on appeal unless plainly wrong. To convict someone of illegal possession of illicit drugs, the Commonwealth must prove the defendant was aware of the presence and character of the drug and that he consciously possessed it. Possession of significant sums of cash and drugs, items routinely classified as tools of the drug trade, the manner in which the drugs are packaged and testimony that the quantity and packaging of the drugs in question is consistent with dealing in the local drug trade are all significant factors when determining whether the evidence supports a finding of both possession and an intent to distribute. Moreover, the defendant ran from the scene contemporaneous with Officer Culpepper leaning into the car close to the items located under the armrest.
Flight following the commission of a crime is evidence of guilt . . . .
Furthermore, the gun was found in the same location as the drugs. 26 Va. App. From the totality of these circumstances, the trial judge could conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant constructively possessed the drugs with the intent to distribute and the gun in conjunction with the drugs. If any person by threats of bodily harm or force knowingly attempts to intimidate or impede a . . . 28 Va. App.