Ohio GOP critical of Dann use of campaign funds

LIBERTY — The Ohio Republican Party is considering filing a complaint with the Ohio Elections Commission claiming Attorney General Marc Dann inappropriately used campaign funds.

Republican Deputy Chairman Kevin DeWine of Fairborn accuses Dann, a Liberty Democrat, of using the funds for questionable security expenses at the attorney general’s Liberty home and for reimbursements for items such as newspapers.

DeWine, a state representative, spent close to $900 from his campaign in 2006 and 2007 on newspaper subscriptions. DeWine said there’s a difference between subscribing to newspapers in his district and picking up a paper at a convenience store.

Leo Jennings, Dann’s spokesman, said DeWine’s accusations are ridiculous, unfounded and a desperate attempt by Republicans to discredit the attorney general.

“The office had three incidents that caused us concern over the past 10 days,” Jennings said Monday regarding Dann’s safety. He declined to discuss the incidents, but said the office receives threats and deals with other issues regarding Dann’s safety.

About $145,000 worth of security equipment and services were spent to protect Dann’s Northlawn Drive home.

For the complete story, read Tuesday’s Vindicator or vindy.com