Ex-deputy won't challenge for sheriff

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio -- A former Clark County deputy looking to become sheriff ends her bid before it really begins.

Deborah K. Burchett withdrew her petition for the post yesterday.

This means Sheriff Gene Kelly will run unopposed in both the March primary and the November election.

Burchett, a Republican, retired as a sergeant after working for the Clark County Sheriff's Office for 29 years.

Kelly, a Democrat, has held the post since 1987.

(Information for this story from the Springfield News-Sun)