The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #33, representing the men and women of the Portsmouth Police Department, has announced its endorsements for the upcoming Portsmouth City Council election. The organization has thrown its support behind former Mayor David Malone, who is running for the 1st Ward seat, and Chris Neff, a candidate for the 5th Ward seat.
In its endorsement letter, FOP Lodge #33 said Malone was chosen after “careful consideration, open discussion, and hearing directly from candidates.” Lodge president Nickolas J. Shepherd praised Malone’s long record of public service, describing him as a lifelong Portsmouth resident with a “clear commitment to public safety, accountability, and the wellbeing of the citizens of Portsmouth.”
“We believe he will bring much-needed leadership to the 1st Ward with a citizens- and community-first approach, rather than pushing a personal agenda,” the statement read. “The challenges facing law enforcement and our community require leaders who are willing to work collaboratively, listen with integrity, and make decisions that put the best interests of our neighborhoods first.”
The endorsement comes as the 1st Ward seat has drawn attention because it is currently held by Councilman Sean Dunne, a former mayor who is also the plaintiff in a lawsuit against other council members. Dunne has alleged that fellow members of council violated Ohio’s open meeting laws in the January 2024 vote that replaced him as mayor with Charlotte Gordon.
In the 5th Ward, the seat was left vacant when Councilman Joey Sandlin was elected Scioto County treasurer. Council appointed Cory Maillet to serve as interim councilman until the upcoming election. With the FOP’s endorsement, Neff enters the race with backing from the city’s police union.
Early voting for the Nov. 4 general election begins October 7.
