A former assistant district attorney filed an age-discrimination complaint against Centre County last week after not being reappointed by the newly elected district attorney in January 2005.

Karen Arnold, 57, who worked as an assistant district attorney for 18 years under former District Attorney Ray Gricar, was the only personnel member not reappointed by District Attorney Michael Madeira.

Madeira, a Republican candidate, beat Democratic candidate Arnold in the 2005 general election.

Arnold could not be reached by press time.

Arnold filed her complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission early last week for reinstatement or payment for the time she has not been employed by the district attorney's office, Madeira said.

"She alleged that she was not reappointed because of age," Madeira said. "But, if she is unable to prove anything, her complaint is denied."

Madeira said he and Arnold have philosophical differences, which was his primary reason for not reappointing her. Madeira said he informed Arnold of his decision Jan. 3, 2005, during his first day as district attorney.

As an independently elected official, Madeira said, he has the right to choose his own assistants.

"Even within her own document, she cited what the reasons were," Madeira said. "I have philosophical differences."

Madeira said he did not know why the complaint was just recently filed.

"I don't understand the timing," he said. "If she believes that, she could have filed the complaint [the day she wasn't re-appointed.]"

Madiera said he talked with Centre County Solicitor Louis Glantz on Friday and is expecting to have a meeting with Glantz next week to discuss the county's response, which must be filed by Dec. 26.

Glantz could not be reached for comment by press time.

Madeira said he became aware of his differences with Arnold throughout the 2005 campaign and through discussions with court personnel and police officers.

"I've said all along that there were philosophical differences on how to run an office and how to prosecute," he said.