I write as former Ohio Attorney General to offer my enthusiastic endorsement of Wood County Prosecutor Paul Dobson in his campaign for Court of Common Pleas judge.
I have known Paul since he first became active in the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association shortly after taking office in 2009. At that time, I served as the Delaware County Prosecuting Attorney, and I saw in Paul right away his enthusiasm and his desire to make a difference.
Paul attended meetings of the OPAA Legislative and Executive Committees, even though he was not a member, just to observe and learn. When an opening occurred on the committees, Paul was the natural choice.
After I was elected at the state level, I continued to see Paul at work. As state auditor, I was pleased to bestow the Public Integrity Award on Paul and his office for their prosecution of theft of public funds.
As Ohio Attorney General, I have seen Paul work with legislators, helping write laws to protect children from “grooming” and increasing penalties for drug traffickers who sell to those recovering from addiction. Paul worked with my office to create a program to help those struggling with drug abuse and addiction. His Addiction Response Collaborative still does great things today.
He eventually became president of the OPAA, leading it through the difficult transition from its long-time executive director. It was no surprise to me that Paul was named OPAA’s Outstanding Prosecuting Attorney of the Year in 2024.
Paul has earned a reputation for integrity and a great deal of respect around the state, while bringing honor to Wood County. I encourage its citizens to support him as judge of the court of common pleas.
Dave Yost
Former Ohio Attorney General
