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

DATE: SUNDAY, January 15, 1995                   TAG: 9501170078
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-3   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: KATHY LOAN STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: CHRISTIANSBURG                                LENGTH: Medium

BLACKSBURG LAWYER ANNOUNCES 2ND TRY FOR PROSECUTOR'S JOB

Painter wants a second chance at becoming the county's chief prosecutor. He lost his first bid for the office when the incumbent, Phil Keith, captured 63 percent of the vote in 1991.

``While I have been encouraged to run by literally hundreds of citizens, I draw strength from the scores of police officers who have personally encouraged me. After much prayer and consulting with family and friends, I am now officially declaring my candidacy,'' Painter wrote in a statement released late Friday afternoon.

``The backbone of the criminal justice system is the police officer. Much of my vision of justice has been drawn from my close working relationship with police officers throughout the county,'' Painter wrote. ``It is from these men and women who daily put their lives on the line for each of us that I draw inspiration as I seek the position of commonwealth's attorney.''

Keith, a Democrat, has not made a formal announcement, but said earlier this month that he intends to seek his party's nomination again.

Painter has specialized in federal and state criminal law and during the past year has expanded into the area of Christian and family rights. He serves as a special justice for the 27th Judicial Circuit, primarily the New River Valley. Special justices deal with mental health legal orders and the legal aspect of medical decisions.

``The citizens of Montgomery County want to feel safe in their homes. It is my commitment to work toward this goal,'' Painter wrote.

Keywords:
POLITICS