Caldwell Jr. re-elected sheriff

Incumbent Staunton City Sheriff Alex L. Caldwell Jr. cruised to victory Tuesday night, snaring more than two-thirds of the vote.

Caldwell picked up 70 percent of the tally to Democratic challenger Michael S. Painter’s 30 percent.

Caldwell relied on a message that during nine years in office he kept a secure court and did more with less during tough economic times.

“It was a lot more work than other campaigns, but I really enjoyed it,” Caldwell said from the Holiday Inn in Staunton, where many fellow Republicans celebrated local and state House victories.. “I’m thankful the citizens of Staunton gave me their vote of confidence.”

The city sheriff’s responsibilities include maintaining court security and delivering court papers.

Painter, an Augusta County court security supervisor, ran on a platform that included updating the policies and procedures of the Staunton court system.

During his time in office Caldwell said he added a metal detection system and worked to re-route traffic to create one entrance and exit to the court building.

A 22-year department veteran, Caldwell said he plans to continue having an open-door policy and welcomes new ideas.