Dayton state rep. under investigation. Charge unknown

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Franklin Co. Prosecuting Attorney Ron O'Brien confirmed an on-going investigation involving Dayton State Representative Clayton Luckie, but said it does not involve the offense of bribery.  No other details were given.

Published reports indicated Luckie is about to be charged for "unethical" behavior.

The "Columbus Dispatch" cites sources who said a criminal charge against Luckie is expected at any time.  The paper did not specify why.

2 NEWS called Luckie Thursday, but he did not answer his phones.

Wright State Political Science Professor Paul Leonard, who is also a former mayor of the city of Dayton, said the democratic party is now in a crunch regardless of whether the accusations against Luckie hold true.

"Monday is the deadline for replacing candidates on the ballot for the general election this November," confirmed Professor Leonard.

According to the Columbus Dispatch, Luckie said he is still running for re-election.

If Luckie does not resign before the August 13th deadline and is indicted on a felony charge, the Democrats will lose that seat to Luckie's Republican opponent.   If Luckie chooses to resign before Monday, Democrats will have an opportunity to put someone else on the ballot.

Professor Leonard said right now Democrats cannot afford to lose one seat in the Ohio legislature.

"Right now Republicans control the Ohio Supreme court, both houses of the legislature and of course we have a Republican governor," said Leonard.

Professor Leonard said Democrats would lose a strong voice in critical areas in Columbus without Luckie in office.

"Representative Luckie has two very important committee assignments in Columbus," said Leonard.  "He sits on the controlling board and he deals with issues involving education. It would be tough for us in Montgomery County to lose that seat because the replacement whether it be a Republican or Democrat may not necessarily get those committee assignments depending on loyalty and seniority."