Lt. Governor visits Ross County to discuss law enforcement

CHILLICOTHE― Election season is in full swing with yard signs out and political commercials airing on every channel.

Gov. Mike DeWine and his Lt. Gov. Jon Husted are running for reelection and as part of their campaign Husted hosted a law enforcement roundtable in Chillicothe this week.

DeWine also visited Ross County recently where he received a tour of the Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center. During his visit he talked with students about their future and their career options. His opponent, Nan Whaley, also recently visited the area while hosting a roundtable to discuss her plans for an apprenticeship program to help people get into trade jobs.

During Husted's visit he focused on discussing the work that he and DeWine have done to support law enforcement. These efforts include streamlining and improving Ohio's background check system, paying for bodycams and tactics to keep Ohio communities safe.

"Governor DeWine and I support the police, we're funding the police and we want people to respect the profession," said Husted.

Husted said it is not just the funding but it is why it matters. This funding helps increase jail space and safety which in return keeps the community safer for citizens and visitors.

Several law enforcement personnel from Ross and nearby counties were present to talk with Husted. Ross County Sherriff George Lavender thanked Husted for his continued support of law enforcement, pointing out how the funding opportunities provided through the state have helped to keep the jail safe.

Husted mentioned the recruitment problems many departments are facing. He said he and DeWine are working to change the perception of police and show people that officers are here to help their community. They are also working on making sure departments are able to pay competitive wages so they can better compete with the open jobs around them.

"We need to support law enforcement so that we sent that message to the criminal element that Ohio is not the place you want to be," said Husted.

Husted mentioned how Ohio is committed to helping those who have served their time find a better life once out of jail. He wants to make sure people have a second chance to make a better life for themselves and their families.

This administration has also focused on the mental health of officers, according to Husted. Lavender pointed out how back when he started in the force mental health was not a priority for officers but he has come to learn that the job does take a toll on officers over time and that there are cases that stick with a person.

"We know their jobs are difficult, they put their lives at risk, they see some terrible things out in the community," said Husted of police.

Husted mentioned that he and DeWine strongly supported the passing of issue one which would require courts to consider public safety when setting bail. The courts would also have to weigh the seriousness of the offense, as well as a person's criminal record and the likelihood a person will return to court.

The gubernatorial seat will be on the ballot during the Nov. 8 General Election. DeWine is running for a second term with Husted. Whaley is running with her Lt. Gov. choice Cheryl Stephens. The winner of this election will begin their four-year term on Jan. 9.

Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Lt. Governor visits Ross County to discuss law enforcement