Late in the primary-election season, new and troubling information has come to light concerning two candidates in Democratic races: for Jackson County sheriff and the 49th Missouri House District.

As a result, we are withdrawing our earlier support for these two candidates and recommending an alternative in the sheriff’s race.

Mike Sharp, who earlier had received our endorsement in the sheriff’s race, has acknowledged that as a reserve police officer five years ago he received and transmitted e-mails containing pornography.

That violated police policy, raising understandable doubts about his ability to ensure professional behavior in the sheriff’s office.

Consequently, John Bullard Jr. now seems to offer a better choice for voters. He has been a detective with the Independence Police Department and is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, the Greater Kansas City Labor Council and the Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus.

Also in the race is Tom Krahenbuhl of Lee’s Summit, an administrator in the Jackson County planning and development division, and Mike Mauer of Blue Springs, who owns Dynamark Security Centers in Blue Springs.

In the 49th District Missouri House Democratic primary, a domestic case has raised questions about Jason Parson.

Based on allegations of verbal abuse, Parson was convicted in Raytown Municipal Court of violating a protection order sought by the mother of his child.

Parson has appealed, but unfortunately the appeal won’t be heard until after the primary. Based on the status of the case at this time, however, we are withdrawing our endorsement of him and offering no recommendation in this race.

Parson works in public relations. The other option for voters is Tom McDonald of Independence, a retired Hallmark employee.