
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, January 22, 1994                   TAG: 9401220210
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C3   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: RICHMOND                                LENGTH: Short

STATE SENATOR'S ATTORNEY ASKS FOR LENIENCY

A lawyer for state Sen. Robert Russell said in court papers that his client has performed enough "good deeds" to warrant leniency when he is sentenced for embezzlement next week.

Dennis Dohnal filed a sentencing memorandum Wednesday listing reasons why a judge should suspend a five-year prison term a jury recommended for Russell, R-Chesterfield. Sentencing is set for Tuesday in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.

Russell was convicted in November of embezzling funds from Richmond Velo Sports Inc., a nonprofit cycling club. His son was a member of the club, and Russell was its treasurer.

Dohnal said Russell had no prior criminal record and has "throughout his life, performed many `good deeds' as a respected member of his community as evidenced by various letters and testimony" that will be offered Tuesday as evidence.

Dohnal also wrote that Russell paid back $6,900 of the $13,650, the amount of the club's funds in dispute, before charges were filed. Dohnal said Russell offered to pay more if Richmond Velo Sports decided he should.

by CNB