My question involves criminal law for the state of: VA

My brother has been charged with malicious wounding and assault after an altercation with his ex girlfriend. After the alleged assault, he left the home (they do not live together). The police were call and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Since that time, his name was listed in the paper as a wanted fugitive. He has since turned himself in and his bailed has been denied.

I was not there to witness the incident and have not had any contact with my brother's ex girlfriend, so I am unsure what did and did not happened. The police were called and pictures where taken of her injuries. It is my understanding that she declined medical attention. He had been in contact with his ex after the incident but not since his arrest. My question is, why would he be held without bond? Does it make a difference that he and she have been in contact with each other since the incident, as if everything is fine? Can the charges be dropped or reduced? What jail time could he be facing? Thanks in advance!