CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Isaac Oberer, an Independent candidate vying for the Sheriff position in Ross County, dodged an attempt to be removed from the ballot this month after a township trustee lodged a challenge with the Board of Elections, citing alleged qualification discrepancies under state law.
The challenge, spearheaded by Township Trustee James Hatfield of West Junction Road, was filed through local attorney and former Chillicothe Chief of Police, Keith Washburn. Hatfield’s petition alleged that Oberer failed to submit required documentation, including copies of his high school diploma, college degree paperwork, or proof of holding a rank of Sergeant or higher for more than two consecutive years — experience required for candidacy under Ohio state law.
In a hearing before the local Board of Elections, treated like a quasi-judicial proceeding, the board would have acted as both judge and jury. During such a hearing, Hatfield, through Washburn would present their chief case against Oberer as to why they believed the candidate should not hold office. Oberer has an option to defend himself. After hearing all presented testimony and purported facts, the board votes if the candidate is qualified or if the candidate should be removed. In the event of a tie from the four-member board, the Secretary of State breaks the tie.
However, prior to the hearing, Oberer took action upon learning of the challenge. He reached out to the Secretary of State’s office, contesting the legality of the attempt to block his candidacy. Oberer, who has submitted nearly 300 signatures — well exceeding the required number — to appear on the ballot, found support from the Secretary of State, Frank LaRose. LaRose intervened, deeming the board’s acceptance of the challenge premature, as Oberer’s candidacy had not yet been certified by the local elections office, a process due to conclude by May 31.
Secretary LaRose’s office rebuked the local board’s actions, labeling them as illegal incompetency. Consequently, LaRose issued an order to cancel the proposed hearing, effectively halting the challenge against Oberer.
Lavender fired Oberer last month from his position as a deputy Sheriff, citing political activity. Oberer said the termination paperwork spoke for itself: political retaliation for challenging his boss.
Lavender has been Sheriff since 2009. No Democrat has filed to run.
