Stone to replace Smith as Columbiana County sheriff

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Columbiana County sheriff David Smith

LISBON — Perry Township Police Chief Ray Stone is to be named Columbiana County Sheriff after the resignation of Sheriff David Smith.

David Johnson, the chairman of the county Republican Party, said today that Smith will step down to take a security position at Mountaineer Race Track & Gaming Casino in West Virginia.

Smith was not eligible to run for sheriff this year after being convicted of a misdemeanor charge of driving while under the influence while returning from Columbus in his county cruiser.

The Republican Central Committee will meet in early September to name Stone as the new sheriff.

Stone topped three Republicans in this year’s primary to be the candidate for sheriff.

Johnson said Smith will formally announce his departure later this week with a written announcement.

Smith was not available this morning, according to his office.

Johnson praised Smith’s career in law enforcement.