By Steve Kemme
Enquirer staff writer

Many Hamilton County residents welcomed the news Monday that Prosecutor Mike Allen had decided not to seek re-election.

"It's the right thing to do," said Rich Summers, 61, of Price Hill. "He disgraced himself."

MORE COVERAGE Mike Allen at his press conference. Enquirer photo/GARY LANDERS

• Scandal-struck Allen makes way for Deters • Disgusted by Allen, voters cheer his decision to quit • Treasurer returns to the base of his power • Lt. Gov. Bradley called favorite to replace Deters • EDITORIAL: Allen's leaving good for county • Borgman editorial cartoon • Special section: Mike Allen coverage

Jeanette Paduano, 67, of Covedale, called Allen's admitted sexual relationship with a female assistant prosecuting attorney "disgusting" and said, "He should just take his medicine and move on."

Some also said they were glad that Ohio Treasurer Joe Deters will enter the prosecutor's race as a write-in candidate. Deters, a former Hamilton County prosecutor, and Allen are both Republicans who grew up in conservative western Hamilton County.

Paduano said she believes Deters would be a good replacement for Allen.

"I don't think I've heard any trash about him," she said.

Some people on Cincinnati talk radio stations Monday were referring to the heavily favored Deters as "Goliath" and the other four write-in candidates as "Davids."

The other candidates are Democrats Jody Luebbers, a former assistant county prosecutor; and Fanon Rucker, a former assistant city prosecutor in Cincinnati; and Republicans James Rueger, a lawyer; and Melissa Powers, a former assistant county prosecutor.

Jim Manning, a 48-year-old Western Hills resident, said he's saddened by the whole Allen scandal. He has been friends with Allen and Deters for many years.

"I've known Mike since we played softball together 30 years ago," Manning said. "He's a great guy. I just wish this whole thing would get over with so people could get on with their normal lives."

He said Deters "will be a good person for the job."

At Hyde Park Square, people expressed relief that Allen won't seek re-election.

"It was inevitable," said Brian Swann, a 36-year-old Oakley resident. "I didn't think there was any way Mike Allen could weather the storm and continue to run for office. I'm hoping Fanon wins."

Tim Schwallie, a 45-year-old Northside resident who identified himself as a Democrat, said he doesn't like Allen or Deters.

"If it's going to give us Deters, I'm not sure it's a step in the right direction," he said.

Some people voiced concern over the possible confusion that could result from a prosecutor's race with only write-in candidates.

"A lot of people are going to be confused and won't vote for the prosecutor's position," said Terri Brody, 49, of Hyde Park. "That's going to be a farce. I'd like to see a real election."

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E-mail skemme@enquirer.com