For Childress

To the editor:

This letter is written in support of Thelbert Childress, candidate for Danville Sheriff. I am the chief deputy of the Danville Sheriff’s Office, and I’ve worked closely with Lt. Childress on a daily basis in managing the office’s operations.

For 21 years, Lt. Childress has faithfully and ethically served the people of Danville as a deputy of this office. He earned the rank of lieutenant — assistant jail administrator — in 2002, based on his record of strong achievement and strong character.

Lt. Childress was born in Danville, educated in Danville and has raised his family in Danville. He is committed to this city, knows its citizens and shares their concerns. He has gained the respect of his peers in this office and other agencies across the commonwealth. Lt. Childress has also earned the respect of the inmates housed in the sheriff’s detention facility.

Over the course of my 38 years of law enforcement experience, working for both the Danville Police Department and the Danville Sheriff’s Office, I’ve learned that police officers and sheriff’s deputies perform very different functions.

Lt. Thelbert Childress is the candidate who, I believe, possesses the experience in each of the varied functions of this office, together with the demonstrated capability and character to be our next sheriff.

I urge Danville to vote Nov. 3 for Thelbert Childress for Danville sheriff.

RONALD C. BALL

Danville