News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, October 21, 2022

Muskingum County backs State Issue One

Muskingum County welcomed the Vote Yes on State Issue One Tour Bus to promote the importance of voting yes to keep communities safe. Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch opened the tour outside the Muskingum County Courthouse Thursday morning by speaking on the importance of voting yes on State Issue One.

During his opening remarks, Prosecutor Welch explained that a yes vote on State Issue One will once again allow locally elected judges to make decisions on bail that include protecting victims and witnesses while also being able to consider a criminal's prior criminal history.

A Supreme Court case from earlier this year determined that a court could only consider the likelihood that someone would show up to court in determining cash bail. Prosecutor Welch applauded Supreme Court Justices Sharon Kennedy, Pat DeWine and Pat Fischer for voting to protect citizens while pointing out that Justice Jennifer Brunner determined that a murder suspect deserved to have his bail lowered.

Prosecutor Welch introduced Hamilton County prosecutor Joe Deters, who along with Attorney General Dave Yost, are making stops at a number of locations throughout Ohio. Deters called the decision by the Supreme Court obscene for prohibiting judges from considering public safety ins setting bail. Deters also urged people to Vote Yes on Issue One. Other elected officials who support State Issue One also made remarks.

Zanesville Mayor Don Mason noted that people from every neighborhood want to be safe and that voting yes on State Issue One is a way for citizens to help law enforcement and prosecutors to keep them safe.

Sheriff Matt Lutz explained to those in attendance that a Yes vote on State Issue One is a critical step in keeping Muskingum County safe from dangerous and violent criminals.

Representative Jeff LaRee explained how his background in public safety makes it clear that voting yes on State Issue One is essential to providing safe neighborhoods and communities.

During closing remarks Prosecutor Welch explained that public safety should not be about party politics but about making Muskingum County and Ohio safer for all citizens and all communities.

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