Attorney General Mike DeWine has a clear choice in front of him that would put justice at the forefront and help take local politics out of play.

When it comes to safeguarding our elections system and strengthening its integrity, DeWine has to lead the way on an issue that has been ongoing for months — and is probably indicative of what has gone on in local elections here for years.

Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted was very clear that he believes election laws have been broken here in Lawrence County in 2010. Although he stopped short of directly accusing anyone, he certainly pointed fingers.

But this isn’t about that, at least for now. Everyone involved with this situation that stems from alleged improper handling of absentee ballots is innocent until proven otherwise in a fair court system.

And that is exactly why DeWine has to take charge of the investigation and potential prosecution in this case.

Because the individuals tied to these allegations are all Democrats, politics will be blamed if Republican Lawrence County Prosecutor J.B. Collier, Jr., has to pursue it.

Collier would be placed in a no-win situation in the court of public opinion, likely only further damaging the public’s faith in the election system.

The secretary of state has praised the board of elections for their handling of this and they absolutely should be commended for their efforts to ensure every vote is counted fairly and accurately.

Now it is up to DeWine to do his part.