Handling drug abuse divides prosecutor candidates

NEWARK — This year’s race for Licking County prosecutor marks the first time in decades that an incumbent is not on the ticket. The opening for a newcomer was created when Prosecutor Ken Oswalt announced in June 2015 that he would not seek re-election. Oswalt had been appointed to the position in 2007, when then-prosecutor Robert Becker retired after more than 20 years at the post. Oswalt was successfully elected to another two terms.