Motion seeks removal of Aey from ballot

YOUNGSTOWN — David P. Aey says he’s proved he has the qualifications to be Mahoning County sheriff, and questions why the incumbent won’t accept that.

As promised, attorneys for Sheriff Randall A. Wellington filed a legal motion in the Ohio Supreme Court asking that the Mahoning County Board of Elections remove Aey’s name from the March 4 Democratic primary.

The elections board ruled Friday that Aey, of Boardman, is eligible to run for sheriff over the protest of Wellington. After the hearing, Wellington said he’d quickly file legal action with the court.

“I am on the ballot, and the voters of Mahoning County have a right to choose their elected officials by voting on March 4,” Aey said. “Mr. Wellington does not want to give the voters that same right. I find that insulting.”

Aey says he wants to debate Wellington on issues such as stopping violent crime, properly running the county jail and spending tax dollars in a lawful way.

“That’s fine,” Wellington said. “My main issue is to prove he’s not qualified to run for sheriff.”

For more, see Thursday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com