Sheriff’s contest shaping up in Columbiana
LISBON — Four local law enforcement officials have announced their candidacy for the Columbiana County sheriff’s seat now held by David Smith, who was charged Oct. 11 with operating a vehicle while impaired.
An endorsement meeting held by the Columbiana County Republican Party Saturday produced three “highly qualified” candidates, according to party chairman David Johnson.
Republican candidates Daniel “Skip” McLean, Jerry Herbert and Raymond Stone will vie for the their party’s nomination in March.
McLean and Herbert are both retired, long-time veterans of the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Department, currently serving as security officers in the municipal court system. Both have maintained all the professional credentials necessary to assume the sheriff’s post, Johnson said.
Stone is currently serving as the Perry Township chief of police.
“We had three absolutely outstanding candidates,” Johnson said. “Any of these gentlemen could walk right into the job and do the duties.”
All three Republican candidates have more than 30 years experience in law enforcement, Johnson said.
Meanwhile, Leetonia Police Chief John Soldano, announced Saturday that he would again seek the Democratic nomination. Soldano ran as the Democratic opposition to Smith in 2004. He also led an unsuccessful bid for his party’s endorsement in 2000.
For more, see Sunday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com