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

DATE: THURSDAY, December 8, 1994                   TAG: 9412080050
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C5   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: LAURENCE HAMMACK
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

CHARGE AGAINST DOCTOR DISMISSED

A Roanoke judge has dismissed an indecent-exposure charge against a physician after the former gynecologist in residency at Community Hospital completed 100 hours of community service.

Michael A. Blackwell, now 39, was arrested last year after an encounter with a male undercover police officer at Highland Park.

Blackwell exposed himself to the officer in the park's restroom, then suggested they perform a sexual act, according to earlier evidence presented in Roanoke General District Court.

At a December 1993 hearing, Judge Julian Raney found there was sufficient evidence to convict Blackwell. But the judge delayed a final decision until Wednesday, telling Blackwell the charge would be dismissed if he completed his community service with no further problems.

After the incident, Blackwell continued to work at Community Hospital until he completed his four-year residency in June or July, said Lucas Snipes, senior vice president of Carilion Health Systems. Blackwell no longer works for Carilion, Snipes said.

by CNB