THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, January 5, 1997 TAG: 9701030242
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
COLUMN: 20 Questions
SOURCE: Susie Stoughton
LENGTH: 67 lines
Charles Browning, a former furniture salesman, no longer has to accept ``No'' from the public.
As a deputy sheriff in Suffolk, he has more clout than when he sold furniture for Heilig-Meyers.
Now, if he asks a teen-ager to take off a hat or reminds spectators to refrain from whispering, chances are they'll do what he says.
Providing security in the Circuit Court is becoming more and more difficult as violence increases nationwide. In court rooms across the country, security measures are being strengthened.
``We have judges who get shot, bailiffs who get shot, wives who get shot,'' he said, referring to other localities.
Fortunately, Suffolk has never had any shootings, he said. ``But we've had some fights.''
Security is often beefed up for high profile cases such as murder trials. But generally the ones that cause the most trouble are custody battles, said Browning, 53.
``You take a father's child away from him, and emotions run high,'' he said. ``Custody issues can be hotly contested.''
The bailiffs have to keep a sharp eye out for potential trouble.
``Proper training is a major key in the prevention of violence in our courts,'' he said.
As part of his ongoing training, he recently attended a three-day seminar at Nags Head. The deputies must also be recertified in weapons use every year.
There's just not enough money to hire enough full-time deputies, he said. But his boss, Sheriff Raleigh Isaacs uses retired law enforcement officers part-time to fill in.
Browning, who grew up in Whaleyville, has never regretted leaving a 15-year career in the furniture business. For the past 12 years, he's been a deputy.
``It shows you a different side of people,'' he said.
What brought brought you here? Father retired from Navy here.
Birthdate/hometown: March 30, 1943/Bristol, Va.
Fondest childhood memory: Sunday afternoon gatherings as a child with entire family.
Marital status/children: Married; one daughter, Carla, 24 years old.
First job/worst job: Pumping gas at a service station/All have been learning experiences.
If you had a choice, what other job would you choose? Satisfied with my job.
What's your favorite hangout? Southside Baptist Church.
Favorite night out on the town: Southside Baptist Church.
Favorite food/drink: Steak and shrimp; iced tea.
Book you wish everyone would read: The Bible.
Ideal vacation: Myrtle Beach, S.C.
I can't resist: Food.
Few people know that I: Am really a shy person.
If you won the lottery, what would you do/buy? I don't play the lottery.
What is the bet advice you've been given and by whom? To always do my best in all endeavors - my father.
What's the best thing about yourself? I love people.
If you could trade places with anyone in the world, who would you be and why? I like who I am and what I do.
What achievements are you most proud of? My salvation, my wife and my daughter.
Something you wish to say but haven't: I've already said it. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by MICHAEL KESTNER
Browning