Early this month, articles in the Columbus Dispatch hinted that Attorney General Marc Dann may have created an appearance of impropriety by accepting political contributions and other assistance from individuals and businesses involved in gambling activities. In January, Dann’s campaign received food and beverages from a person related to Alfred DeLeon, an officer of Castle King LLC, a company that manufactures and distributes controversial “games of skill.” Additionally, Dann is said to have received more than $47,000.00 from gambling interests since his inauguration; and Dann may have taken another $20,000.00 to help defray inauguration and transition expenses. In May, Dann’s office settled a lawsuit against Castle King LLC that claimed the devices violated Ohio law. The settlement provided criteria by which the Attorney General would certify the devices as compliant with Ohio law.

According to the Dispatch, Dann did not violate any laws in accepting the contributions. Dann’s spokesman says that the donations had no effect on the Attorney General’s position