Mike Crites Calling for Resignation of ODJFS Director Jones-Kelley

Release:

Columbus – The following is a statement from Mike Crites, Republican candidate for Ohio Attorney General:

“Helen Jones-Kelley committed a serious error in judgment when she authorized staff to access confidential personal information on Joe Wurzelbacher – better known as “Joe the Plumber.” Even more troubling is her claim that her agency frequently runs checks on individuals simply for being ‘thrust quickly into the public spotlight.’

“Many are on the record that these actions are not standard procedure. Coupled with Jones-Kelley’s $2,500 contribution to the Obama campaign, it’s hard for the public to find any reasonable justification for her actions.

“As the director of an agency that has access to highly sensitive and confidential personal information, Jones-Kelley showed a remarkable lack of judgment. Her continued leadership of this agency will only serve to further erode the public’s trust in government. Jones-Kelley should do the right thing and resign her position effective immediately.

“Under Ohio law, Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O’Brien may seek an injunction to prevent similar future misuse of this database. I respectfully encourage him to use any means in his power to protect other Ohioans from these improper and potentially unlawful actions.

“My opponent Richard Cordray repeatedly claims to be the first to speak up in the face of wrongdoing, but he’s failed to speak up on this matter – just like he failed to call for the resignation of and return tainted campaign contributions from Frank Russo and Jimmy Dimora, two Cuyahoga County officials at the center of a massive federal public corruption investigation. It appears that Mr. Cordray is only willing to cry foul when it serves his own political interest.”