ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times

DATE: Thursday, January 23, 1997             TAG: 9701230029
SECTION: VIRGINIA                 PAGE: C-3  EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: DIANE STRUZZI STAFF WRITER

POLICE CHIEF SICK; ACTING CHIEF NAMED

Longtime Roanoke Police Chief David Hooper is on sick leave, and a 44-year veteran is leading the department in his absence, Roanoke officials said.

City administrators have named Major James Viar acting chief, said spokeswoman Michelle Bono.

No change in operations is expected, since Viar usually assumes the chief's responsibilities when Hooper is away from the department. That has been the situation since Hooper left on vacation in mid-December. He has been on sick leave only for a "short time," Bono said.

Out of respect for Hooper's privacy, Bono would not discuss his illness, but said he is expected to return. Administrators have not been given a specific date.

"We look forward to when he is coming back," Bono said. "He has told us he expects to return. We wish him a speedy recovery."

Hooper will mark his 30th year as chief Aug. 1.

LENGTH: Short :   28 lines
ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO:  (headshot) Hooper