Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, March 7, 1995 TAG: 9503070123
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: RON BROWN STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: FINCASTLE LENGTH: Medium
Hagan, a Democrat, made his announcement Monday morning on the steps of the county courthouse.
``I have earned the job with a strong record in law enforcement,'' he said. ``Botetourt County has a proud tradition of strong law enforcement.''
Hagan first was elected commonwealth's attorney in 1991 after serving 15 years as a part-time assistant commonwealth's attorney.
``Botetourt County is one of the most peaceful communities in the commonwealth,'' he said. ``Hard-nosed law enforcement is a big reason why that's so.''
Hagan said he has more than met the challenges of the job.
``As commonwealth's attorney, I have taken on and beaten the best defense lawyers around,'' he said.
However, critics appear poised to challenge Hagan's handling of several key cases.
He sought the death penalty for Billy Layne, convicted of killing 11-year-old Phadra Carter after abducting her from her home in September 1993. A Winchester jury failed to recommend the death penalty. Layne is serving two life terms.
Hagan sought a murder conviction for Travis Shelor, accused of killing Brian Andrews while driving drunk on a suspended license in May 1994. Judge George Honts III threw out the murder case, and Shelor pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. Shelor is serving a 15-year prison term.
Joel Branscom, an assistant commonwealth's attorney in Roanoke, appears to be a likely Republican challenger to Hagan. Branscom is expected to announce his candidacy this month.
Keywords:
POLITICS
by CNB