By Janice Morse
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Butt

LEBANON - For nearly a quarter-century, Errol Butt served the Warren County prosecutor's office and associated agencies with dedication, candor and humor.

On Wednesday, about 100 people - including defense attorneys, judges and the county sheriff - gathered to show love, respect and support for Butt. He is battling cancer, and on Monday he retires as the prosecutor's chief investigator.

Butt could quickly assess a case and "tell us what's baloney and not baloney," Prosecutor Rachel Hutzel told the crowd in the court building lobby. "Errol was never afraid to say it - and he would not have said 'baloney.' "

Speakers recounted Butt's accomplishments. First a Morrow police officer, Butt became a prosecutor's investigator Dec. 3, 1979. He helped form the county's drug task force. Butt also served as the Fraternal Order of Police lodge president.

Butt rose to respond. But he became so choked up he couldn't deliver his planned speech. He simply said, "Thank you," waved, and sat down.

The crowd gave a standing ovation.

E-mail jmorse@enquirer.com