Roanoke County's long-standing sheriff has been nominated to be the U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Virginia.

U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Jim Webb nominated Gerald Holt in a March letter to President Obama. It is unclear when Obama might make an appointment.

Holt, 66, said if chosen he would leave the post he has held in the county for the past 17 years. His current term will end in two years.

The senators also nominated Washington County Sheriff Fred Newman.

Wayne Pike, the current marshal for the Western District, was appointed by President Bush in 2002.

The president's appointment must be approved by the Senate.

The Western District marshal's office has a staff of about 30 people and is responsible for providing security in federal court, transporting prisoners, arresting fugitives and serving court papers.

-- Amanda Codispoti