ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — Isaac Oberer, the Independent candidate for Ross County Sheriff, has issued a defiant statement as he faces a second attempt to remove him from the ballot. The new challenge, led by associates of incumbent Sheriff George Lavender, comes after Oberer was officially declared a certified candidate by the county Board of Elections.
The hearing for the latest challenge is scheduled for Monday, June 17, at 2:30 p.m. in Courtroom #1 at the Ross County Courthouse. The four-member Board of Elections will preside over the hearing, which is open to the public.
In his statement, Oberer, a former deputy, Marine, Sergeant, drug task force agent, and field training officer, emphasized his commitment to fighting what he views as politically motivated efforts to undermine his candidacy.
“My fellow citizens of Ross County, as an Independent candidate for Sheriff, I stand here not just as Isaac Oberer, a former deputy, Marine, Sergeant, drug task force agent, field training officer, and servant of this community, but as a voice against the oppressive actions that seek to silence me,” Oberer said. “Once again, the entrenched powers, aligned with Sheriff George Lavender, are attempting to remove me from the ballot. This marks the second time my candidacy has faced such a challenge, a clear indication of the lengths to which some will go to maintain their grip on power.”
The current challenge is spearheaded by Township Trustee James Hatfield of West Junction Road, represented by local attorney and former Chillicothe Chief of Police, Keith Washburn. Hatfield alleges that Oberer failed to submit necessary documentation, including proof of his high school diploma, college degree, or evidence of holding a rank of Sergeant or higher for more than two consecutive years, as required by Ohio state law.
Oberer dismissed these allegations as unfounded and bureaucratic red tape, reiterating his belief that the actions against him are politically motivated.
“Despite the initial challenge being dismissed in March for its premature nature, and my petition signatures being verified by the county Board of Elections, another protest has been filed,” Oberer continued. “This orchestrated effort, led by Township Trustee James Hatfield and his legal counsel, former Chillicothe Chief of Police Keith Washburn, aims to question my qualifications with unfounded allegations and bureaucratic red tape.”
Oberer also pointed to anonymous reports of clandestine meetings between Hatfield and Sheriff Lavender as evidence of a coordinated effort to eliminate competition.
“The anonymous reports of clandestine meetings between Hatfield and Sheriff Lavender only reinforce the perception of a coordinated effort to eliminate competition through any means necessary,” he said.
Oberer, who submitted nearly 300 signatures to appear on the ballot, argues that his recent termination by Sheriff Lavender was a direct response to his decision to run for office. Lavender, who has held the office since 2009, faces no Democratic opponents in the race.
“I have dedicated my life to serving the people of Ross County, and I believe in the principles of justice, fairness, and transparency,” Oberer stated. “My termination by Sheriff Lavender was not a coincidence but a direct response to my decision to stand up and offer a new vision for our county’s future. This fight is not just about me; it is about ensuring that every voice in Ross County is heard and that the will of the people prevails.”
Oberer concluded his statement by urging the community to support him at the upcoming hearing.
“As we approach the hearing on June 17, I urge you to stand with me. Together, we can show that our community will not be intimidated by political maneuvering or silenced by fear. We will fight for a fair and just election, where every candidate has an equal opportunity to present their vision for our future. Your support, your voices, and your presence are crucial in this battle for our county’s integrity.”
The hearing will take place on Monday, June 17, at 2:30 p.m. at the Ross County Courthouse and is open to the public.