(Hamilton)---Butler County Prosecutor Mike Gmoser is defending his handling of the OVI case against State Representative Wes Retherford. Gmoser, who worked with Retherford on a bill to crack down on elder abuse, stood alongside the lawmaker during a news conference with Ohio Attorney General Mike Dewine on April 2, 2015. (Pictured)

At least three Butler County GOP leaders have privately told WMOH Radio they believe Gmoser should have recused himself from the case, and appointed a special prosecutor because of his professional and personal contacts with Retherford and his family. Gmoser issued a press release shortly after Retherford's indictment on a misdemeanor OVI charge was announced. Gmoser says he saw to it that Retherford did not receive special treatment. Retherford could have been expelled from his seat in the house if he was convicted of the felony charge, which was dropped by the grand jury.