Three men file as independents to oppose Wellington for sheriff

YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County Sheriff Randall A. Wellington faces the challenge of three former sheriff’s department employees in the November general election.

Wellington, of Youngstown, is running unopposed today after two opponents who filed to run against him in the Democratic primary were removed from the ballot.

But Wellington, sheriff since August 1999, has a target on his back again.

“They have a right to run,” he said of the three who filed by today’s deadline as independent candidates for sheriff in the November election. “As I say, ‘The water’s warm, jump in.’”

Those challenging Wellington are:

UJames S. Horvath of Boardman, a retired lieutenant.

U John Martynyszyn of Youngstown, a retired corporal.

U Howard Faison of Youngstown, a retired captain who filed last week.

County election boards have until May 16 to certify nominating petitions for independent candidates.

For the complete story, see Tuesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.