hamilton-county-prosecuting-attorney

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich's comment recent reports

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:26:02 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich's comment on recent reports

Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge Connie Pillich:

“I want to provide context regarding a case involving a threat against a Hamilton County Common Pleas Court judge that resulted in a misdemeanor charge.

My office takes any threat of harm seriously, including those made against judges. Judges must be able to perform their duties free from intimidation. Threats against them undermine the integrity of the justice system.

Under Ohio law, grand jury proceedings are secret. This protects citizens who serve and ensures decisions are made based on the evidence without outside influence.

Since taking office in January of 2025, five judges in Hamilton County have been the subject of threats. In each instance, the case was presented to a grand jury of nine randomly selected citizens from our community.

These grand juries reviewed the evidence and made independent charging decisions. Each case is fact-specific. In the most recent matter, a felony charge was presented to the grand jury. The grand jury, based on the evidence, instead returned a misdemeanor indictment.

It is not my role to second-guess that decision.

This case is now proceeding in municipal court, and I am confident it is being handled with the seriousness it deserves.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in long-term theft and fraud case

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 19:01:43 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in long-term theft and fraud case

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today that a grand jury has indicted Diana Frey on multiple felony charges stemming from an alleged long-term scheme involving theft and financial fraud.

Frey, 66, of West Price Hill, is charged with five felonies: three counts of theft, unauthorized use of property, and telecommunications fraud.

The offenses occurred between Jan. 1, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2025, at Weil Thoman Moving and Storage in St. Bernard. Frey, who had previously served time in federal prison for stealing over $700,000 from the union she represented, was hired by the victim company after her release in 2014. Frey is accused of manipulating company financial records and inflating payroll figures to conceal ongoing theft. The theft began almost immediately upon her being hired.

Authorities estimate the total financial loss to Weil Thoman Moving and Storage to be between $300,000 and $400,000.

“It is shameful that Diana Frey was given a second chance and took advantage of a person who wanted to help her,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich said. “But in all cases, we take allegations of financial crimes seriously, particularly when they impact local businesses and livelihoods.”

Frey faces up to 26 years in prison.

Mathew May

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:43:51 GMT

NEXT ELIGIBILITY HEARING DATE

6/01/2026

Location

Chillicothe Correctional Institution

Offenses

Aggravated Burglary

Murder

Felonious Assault

Sentence Min/Max

21 YEARS/LIFE

Date Admitted

12/07/1994

A30548200

Our records indicate that this defendant is serving a sentence of 21 years to Life years following conviction for Murder with Firearms Specification, Aggravated Burglary with Firearms Specification, and 3 counts of Felonious Assault in the above case number.

As we have done before, we continue to oppose granting May any type of early release. Before going through the violent facts of this matter, a review of May’s institutional summary report shows that he has yet to be rehabilitated. Despite having been in prison for three decades, he is still plagued with contraband violations. While much of that has been relatively minor, like having too many shorts, he has also been found with contraband phones and burnt CD/DVDs. It shows him also being disrespectful towards staff and refusing to comply with drug testing procedures. And, most recently, it had him lunging at another inmate. His inability to comply with even the most basic rules in the structured environment of a prison shows that he would quickly violate on parole.

But even without those violations, the underlying severity and senseless violence of his crimes shows that he should spend the rest of his life in prison.

On May 7, 1994, Matthew May and three others were driving around the Hartwell area of Cincinnati drinking alcohol. When they stopped at a United Dairy Farmers, they learned that a friend of May’s had allegedly been assaulted by Robert Hollenberg and Brian Masters who were from Norwood. May and another member of the group were angry about this and wanted to go find Hollenberg and Masters to exact revenge. Brian Prichard, one of the other members of the group asked if anyone had a gun. Randell Edes, who had met the group at the UDF, stated that his father kept a gun at his bar. Prichard then drove the group to the bar, where Edes gave the weapon to May.

When they discovered the gun was empty, one of the others went and got some ammunition which he handed to May. The gun was passed around, loaded and returned to May who kept it. One of the members left the group because he was concerned something bad was going to happen because Prichard and May were acting crazy, with a loaded gun while they were looking for revenge. New members were added to the group and one of them directed Prichard to

Hollenberg’s house. On the way, several witnesses testified that Prichard kept talking about “popping” or shooting someone, and stated that anyone who was too scared to “pop” someone should leave.

When they arrived at Hollenberg’s house, the group got out of the car, May with the pistol in his hand. When no one answered their knock on the door, May kicked in the glass panel of the door and opened it. As the group was entering through the front, Hollenberg escaped through the rear. Four people remained in the home. May approached one of them, stuck the loaded gun in his face, and threatened to kill him if he didn’t tell them where Hollenberg was. When he didn’t answer fast enough, May pistol-whipped and Prichard punched him. May then threatened another one of the occupants with the gun, before going upstairs and discovering someone hiding. May brought him downstairs and beat him with a portable radio until he told May where he could find Hollenberg.

May and his crew then got in Prichard’s car and drove off. They once again discussed revenge and “popping” someone. It was in this state that May spotted Larry Kincer walking down the street. May believed that Larry had been “messing” with his brother several months prior and decided it was time to get revenge for that slight as well. May ordered Prichard to stop the car because “he had shit to deal with.” May got out of the car and walked toward Larry with the loaded gun. When Larry saw the gun, he turned to run and May shot him twice; once in the shoulder and once in the head. Larry was 20 years old at the time.

Larry’s 17 year old brother heard the shots, saw Prichard’s car and ran to get his parents who lived nearby. Larry’s parents had heard the shots, but didn’t realize how traumatically relevant they were. They never thought they would find their son lying on sidewalk dying. Medical crews arrived and attempted CPR, but the damaged was done. Larry died the next day at the hospital.

Matthew May was the ringleader of this murderous group. He planned and orchestrated the evening’s events. He went to great lengths to make sure he had a loaded gun before he went looking for someone to “pop.” Larry Kincer was not even the object of May’s rage, but rather a target of opportunity. He executed Larry for “messing” with his brother. May was looking for someone to kill that night, and unfortunately for Larry Kincer he was the first target May found.

Larry was a young man beloved in his community with a bright future ahead of him when May cut him down. May is now 45 years old, with a long life ahead of him. To allow him to pursue the life he stole from Larry would be an insult to Larry’s memory and a slap in the face to the Kincer family who still feels the loss every day. Through his own actions, May has earned every day of the life sentence he received and this office strongly opposes releasing him even one day before that sentence is complete.

Public Hearing Comments

Dewaine Poindexter

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:39:39 GMT

NEXT ELIGIBILITY HEARING DATE

6/01/2026

Location

Allen Correctional Institution

Offenses

Attempted Agg Murder

Aggravated Burglary

Aggravated Murder

Felonious Assault

Kidnapping

Sentence Min/Max

46 YEARS/LIFE

Date Admitted

06/18/1985

A18544200

Our records indicate that this defendant is serving a sentence of 46 years to Life following convictions for Aggravated Murder, Attempted Aggravated Murder, Kidnapping, Felonious Assault and Aggravated Burglary.

As stated in our previous objections, Poindexter’s crimes call for nothing short of his life sentence. A jury saw fit to recommend the death sentence but this was later reduced to a life sentence by a federal court.

In 1985, Poindexter burst into the home of his ex-girlfriend, Tracy Abernathy, where she was sleeping with her one-year-old son and her boyfriend, Kevin Flanaghan. Poindexter shot Flanaghan in the chest, killing him. He struck Abernathy and ordered her to take her son downstairs.

When an unarmed security guard, John Hurt, responded to the apartment, he was confronted by Poindexter, who was forcing Abernathy and her son out the front door. Abernathy immediately told the guard that her boyfriend had been shot and Hurt followed her upstairs to investigate. But Poindexter followed and ordered Hurt to kneel on the floor and announced that he was going to kill both Hurt and Abernathy. He shot twice, execution-style, eighteen to twenty inches away from Hurt’s head and missed. His gun then misfired and he started to reload the revolver.

Hurt radioed for assistance. Before police arrived, Poindexter pistol-whipped Abernathy twice and ordered Hurt and Abernathy outside. But police arrived, and Poindexter fled.

For murdering one person and attempting to execute two others, Poindexter should serve his entire life sentence in prison. There is nothing in the record to support anything less and this office will continue to object to any release of this prisoner prior to his natural death.

Public Hearing Comments

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment of a woman for multiple charges involving child abuse

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:59:34 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment of a woman for multiple charges involving child abuse

A Cincinnati woman has been indicted on multiple charges for seriously injuring a child.

A Hamilton County Grand Jury on March 18 indicted Adriana Napier, 29, of West Price Hill, with one count each of endangering children, felonious assault, strangulation, and domestic violence. Napier pleaded not guilty Wednesday morning.

The charges stem from an incident on Jan. 16, 2026, at a residence on Gilsey Avenue in Cincinnati. Napier became upset with a 13-year-old after the child did not do household chores. She assaulted the child, striking her with a belt and curtain rod, causing multiple injuries, including a fracture. Napier is also accused of punching, biting, and strangling the child. The victim fled and a neighbor contacted emergency services. The child was treated at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

“The allegations in this case are deeply disturbing and reflect a level of violence that no child should ever experience,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “We will pursue these charges aggressively and seek accountability. I commend the neighbor who took action to protect the child. We can only help these children if, when we see something, we say something.”

Napier faces up to 15 years in prison.

A review of child abuse indictments shows a 159% increase in cases brought against defendants since 2020, rising from 17 defendants that year to 44 defendants in 2025.

In recognition of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children planted 280 Pinwheels at Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati. The pinwheels represent 5,615 reported child abuse victims in 2024 and serve as a reminder that the work of protecting children is never done.

To report child abuse: Call 241-KIDS (5437). Reports can remain anonymous.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in music venue mass shooting

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:20:12 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in music venue mass shooting

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich today announced the indictments of two men in connection with the March 1 mass shooting at Riverfront Live in the East End that left nine people injured.

Franeek Cobb, 24, of Bond Hill and Derrick Long, 29, of Spring Grove Village, were indicted by a Hamilton County grand jury for their roles in the incident.

Cobb is charged with one count of attempted murder, 18 counts of felonious assault, and one count each of inducing panic, illegal possession of a firearm in a liquor establishment, carrying a concealed weapon and having weapons while under disability.

Long is charged with one count each of illegal possession of a firearm in a liquor establishment, tampering with evidence, carrying a concealed weapon, and having weapons while under disability.

Both men entered the crowded music venue with firearms despite being legally prohibited from possessing them due to prior convictions. The two men had a longstanding dispute. At close range, Cobb shot Long. In self-defense, Long returned fire. Eight bystanders in the crowd were struck. Hundreds of people were in the area as the gunfire erupted, and people fled the venue.

“Possessing a gun and bringing it into a crowded music venue and firing it is not only criminally illegal, but also a violent breach of our community safety,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “We are fortunate that no one was killed. That kind of violence has no place in Hamilton County. My office will hold them fully accountable.”

Cobb faces up to 98 years in prison. Long faces up to 13 and a half years in prison.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces three indicted on exploitation of 87-year-old victim

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:26:38 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces three individuals indicted on exploitation of 87-year-old victim

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today that three individuals have been indicted in a financial exploitation scheme that targeted an elderly Cincinnati resident, draining the victim’s bank account and leaving her living in squalor.

A Hamilton County grand jury in January returned indictments against Thomas Dukes, Fray Chaney, and Jennifer Smith, all of East Price Hill. Dukes, 74, and Chaney, 23, were indicted on charges of theft from a person in a protected class, identity fraud against a person in a protected class and telecommunications fraud. Smith, 46, was indicted on a charge of theft. All three have since been arrested and their cases are proceeding through the court process.

According to investigators, the defendants befriended the 87-year-old victim at church, targeting her for exploitation. They obtained power of attorney and withdrew money totaling $70,000 from the victim’s bank account for personal use. Investigators said Dukes and Chaney pretended to be the victim and purchased a Tesla online through Carvana in the victim’s name, a purchase that totaled $52,000. Smith separately stole the victim’s Cadillac. Total losses are estimated at more than $122,000.

The exploitation came to light when a neighbor noticed problems at the home and called a relative of the victim, who showed up at the home only to be turned away by Dukes. Bank employees were also helpful. They noticed large sums of money being withdrawn from the victim’s account and were worried about the victim’s condition when she did in-person banking. They reported their concerns to Hamilton County Adult Protective Services, which along with police did a welfare check. The victim is now receiving proper care.

“These charges reflect the calculated exploitation of an elderly victim,” Pillich said. “My office will seek accountability for the harm that was done. This is exactly why I strengthened the Elder Justice Unit. We will make sure seniors are protected.”

For suspected abuse or neglect contact Adult Protective Services at 513-421-5433. For suspected financial exploitation contact the Elder Justice Unit at 513-946-7226.

Melissa Vanover

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:26:38 GMT

NEXT ELIGIBILITY HEARING DATE

4/01/2026

Location

Ohio Reformatory for Women

Offenses

Attempted Murder

Theft

Sentence Min/Max

23 YEARS/LIFE

Date Admitted

02/09/1999

W4460500

On June 14, 1998, Melissa Vanover shot and killed her boyfriend, Michael Nieman, as he slept. After killing Nieman, Vanover and four others stole more than three hundred thousand dollars in cash found in Nieman’s safe, a multitude of jewelry, several pounds of marijuana, as well as guns and knives. The group then went to another location and Vanover divided the money, jewelry, and marijuana.

Vanover, a single mother of four children, worked as an exotic dancer in Northern Kentucky when she met Nieman. Nieman bought Vanover hundred-dollar drinks, brought her flowers at work, and gave her a nugget diamond ring. Nieman told Vanover he was a jeweler. Nieman began giving Vanover more and more jewelry, paid her children’s babysitter, bought clothes for Vanover and her children, and paid whatever bills Vanover had. Nieman took Vanover to dinner and a casino nearly every night, and gave her up to five thousand dollars to spend gambling. Nieman provided Vanover a steady supply of about five hundred dollars to have on hand. Nieman rented Vanover an apartment and paid for all of the furnishings. Vanover eventually began working less and spending more time doing things for Nieman, such as cleaning his house and running errands for him. Vanover spent only a few hours of each day with her children. Vanover characterized her relationship with Nieman as “really sweet” and “good.”

Vanover testified that the relationship later became volatile. Nieman screamed and cursed at her, and hit her with a table. Nieman kept a lot of guns at his home and scared Vanover by shooting toward her while in the house. Vanover testified that Nieman shocked her twice using a stun-type gun. She testified that she was afraid of Nieman while on a trip to Arizona, where he yelled at her, pulled her hair, and scraped her arm with a knife. She testified that Nieman showed her some property and told her he could kill someone and bury the body there without being caught. Vanover also testified that Nieman told her he previously had been a hit man, had beat people up for hire, and had killed people. Vanover claimed that she told her sister that she was afraid of Nieman, but that she had never expressed that fear to anyone else.
During her relationship with Nieman, Vanover began a sexual relationship with another man, Kevin Green (“Kevin”). Vanover met Kevin and his family when she lived next door to them, about three months before Nieman’s murder. Brenda Green (“Mrs. Green”), Kevin’s mother, occasionally babysat Vanover’s children. Kevin’s twelve-year-old sister, Melanie, became very good friends with Vanover. Vanover and Kevin often spent time with Kevin’s brother, John Green, Jr. (“John Jr.”) and his girlfriend, Angela Armacost (“Armacost”), going to clubs or smoking marijuana at the Green home. Vanover also became acquainted with John Green, Sr. (“John Sr.”), Kevin’s father, during this time.

In the few months before she killed Nieman, Vanover told Armacost about her relationship with Nieman and said that “she’d like to rob him and have all of his money because he had a lot of money.” Vanover told Armacost that Nieman had a lot of jewelry, and that she was allowed to wear the jewelry but not keep it. Vanover talked to John Jr. about stealing Nieman’s money just two weeks before his murder.
On the day Nieman was killed, Vanover took Melanie Green to a picnic and birthday party for Vanover’s nephew. Vanover testified that at the picnic she was upset because she had lost custody of her children, and she took Valiums given to her by Nieman. After the picnic, Nieman drove Vanover and Melanie to the home of Vanover’s sister, Danita. At Danita’s, Vanover asked Melanie to call Kevin and tell him that Vanover loved him, and that she had taken seven Valiums. Melanie called Kevin as requested, then handed the phone to Vanover. When Nieman came into the room and asked Vanover to whom she was talking, Vanover replied that it was Mrs. Green. After the call ended, Vanover began talking to Danita, who had sent Melanie into another room. From there, Melanie “heard [Vanover] say that she was going to do something with [Nieman] in the room when he was turned around taking his clothes off changing into his nightclothes.” Later that evening after Nieman and Vanover drove Melanie home, Melanie was with Mrs. Green and began crying. Melanie told her mother, “[Vanover] is going to do her plan. * * * [Vanover] said she’s going to do her plan, that she’s going to rob [Nieman].”

Vanover claimed as follows in her testimony: During the car ride from Danita’s to the Green home she was upset about her children being away from her, and that Nieman kept telling her to shut up. When the couple got back to Nieman’s house, Nieman went in while Vanover sat in the car in an effort to calm down. When Vanover went into the house, Nieman had the TV on and was getting undressed. Still crying, she listened to music and smoked a cigarette. Vanover went into Nieman’s bedroom and got onto the bed, telling him that she was upset about her children. The talk escalated into an argument and Vanover became angry because Nieman called her children and their dad, who is African American, “niggers.” During the argument, Nieman accidentally hit Vanover on the nose, causing her to bleed slightly. Nieman began yelling at Vanover to get off the bed so she would not get blood on the comforter. Nieman threatened to kill the father of Vanover’s children.

Vanover testified that Nieman called her names, and she saw him reach toward his headboard where she claimed he kept a gun at night. She said that the thought Nieman was reaching for a gun in order to shoot her. When she saw him reach for the headboard, she reached for a loaded gun that was kept under his bed. Vanover climbed into bed with Nieman, pulled a sheet over herself to protect her from blood spatters, and shot Nieman in the back at close range.
After the first shot, Nieman said, “What are you doing? Oh, my God, you’re killing me. I thought you loved me,” and Vanover shot him at least two more times, killing him. After killing Nieman, Vanover called Kevin and told him that she “did it,” that she “killed [Nieman],” and claimed to be suicidal. Kevin, John Jr., and Armacost piled into Armacost’s Dodge Omni and drove to Nieman’s home. As the trio arrived at Nieman’s home, John Sr. also arrived. Kevin, John Jr., and John Sr., entered Nieman’s home, while Armacost waited outside near her car.

Nieman was a jeweler who operated his business out of his home and kept his money and valuables in a safe in his living room. Once inside his home, Vanover directed the Green sons to take certain items, and Vanover and Kevin filled a black gym back with more than three hundred thousand dollars in cash found in Nieman’s safe and a multitude of jewelry. In addition, John Jr. took several pounds of marijuana out of Nieman’s freezer. Nieman was an avid gun and knife collector. The group rounded up most of his guns and some knives and put them into Mr. Green’s vehicle.
Armacost waited outside a while then entered Nieman’s home, where she saw Nieman’s legs then Nieman himself, lying dead on his bed, his sheets soaked in blood, his eyes open, partially covered with a sheet. Armacost went back to her car and John Jr. followed, carrying the marijuana on his person and placing the black bag filled with cash and jewelry in the back of Armacost’s car. The two went back to the Green residence. Vanover and Kevin rode back to the Green home in John Sr.’s car, which was filled with guns from Nieman’s collection. Back at the Green residence, Vanover, Kevin, John Jr., Armacost and John Sr. went to the basement and Vanover spread out the loot from Nieman’s home. Vanover divided the cash, giving ten thousand dollars each to John Jr. and Armacost, and a large amount to John Sr. Additionally, John Jr., John Sr., Armacost and Kevin each received jewelry. It was understood among the group that whatever cash and jewelry remained belonged to Vanover. John Sr. took all of the guns to his brother's home in Amelia.

Vanover wanted to leave the Green’s home and suggested a hotel. Armacost drove Vanover and Kevin to a Red Roof Inn, where John Jr. paid in advance for a room for two nights. Armacost and John Jr. went back to Armacost’s house, leaving Vanover and Kevin at the hotel with the black bag. Vanover and Kevin emptied the bag, spread the money out on a bed, and had sex on the money. The next day, John Jr. and Armacost returned with food for Vanover and Kevin. While they were there, Vanover reenacted the murder for her friends, demonstrating how she snuck into Nieman’s bed and shot him.
The four left the hotel, again in Armacost’s car, and were stopped by Blue Ash police for a traffic violation. After obtaining identification from Armacost and John Jr., who rode in the front passenger seat, police arrested John Jr. on an outstanding warrant. Police removed Vanover and Kevin from the back seat and searched the vehicle with Armacost’s consent. When police opened the trunk and found the black bag filled with cash and jewelry, each of the passengers denied ownership of the bag. Police then arrested Vanover, Kevin and Angela and transported them to the Blue Ash Police Department. There, Armacost and John Jr. made statements to the police that implicated Vanover in Nieman’s murder. Kevin later gave a taped statement at the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department.

After a jury trial, Vanover was convicted of aggravated murder with specifications and theft. Her convictions were affirmed on appeal.

Even if the best presumption possible—that Neiman was actually violent towards her—is taken as true, Vanover’s murder still stands out as shockingly cold, callous, and calculated. She told people what she planned to do and then did it. And then instead of feeling any remorse, she celebrated by spreading Neiman’s money across a bed and having sex on it.

Vanover’s crime has earned her life sentence. She should not be granted any type of release.

Public Hearing Comments

Charles Anthony Jones

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:23:24 GMT

NEXT ELIGIBILITY HEARING DATE

4/01/2026

Location

London Correctional Institution

Offenses

Attempted Murder

Aggravated Robbery

Felonious Assault

Sentence Min/Max

23 YEARS/50 YEARS

Date Admitted

06/12/2007

A55522500

On October 3, 1988, Jones entered a bank in Cincinnati, Ohio, and fired a shot into the ceiling. He then robbed the bank, taking money from five bank tellers. He left with $10,620 in cash, which included bait money and exploding dye packs. As he ran down the street, the dye packs exploded and began spewing pink smoke.

The pink smoke caught the eye of an off-duty Cincinnati Police Officer, Robert Hennekes, who had been jogging in the area. Officer Hennekes chased after Jones but briefly lost him. When he saw Jones in a vehicle, he approached the vehicle and bent over to speak to Jones. This is when Jones pointed his gun at Hennekes and shot him in the chest.

Jones then fled in the vehicle. A police chase took place, ending only when Jones wrecked into a building. He then ran into some nearby woods, which is where he was eventually apprehended.

Jones’ actions proved that he was a danger to the community. Without hesitation, he used a firearm, both to commit the bank robbery and in his attempted flight from that crime. He put countless more people at risk by leading the police on a chase that ended with him thankfully ramming his car into a building and not a person.

Those, of course, are just his convictions out of Hamilton County. He also has convictions for attempted murder and felonious assault out of Clermont County from 2007.

Nor has his time in prison reduced his violent tendencies. Just over a year ago, he charged another inmate and began striking him. That likely led to his being dropped from security level 1 to 2.

From getting in prison fights to shooting off-duty police officers to attempted murders, Jones has repeatedly shown that he is a violent, dangerous person. He should not be released from prison.

Public Hearing Comments

Mason Harris

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:19:49 GMT

NEXT ELIGIBILITY HEARING DATE

4/01/2026

Location

Mansfield Correctional Institution

Offenses

Abduction

Kidnapping

GSI

Rape

Sentence Min/Max

15 YEARS/125 YEARS

Date Admitted

05/30/1985

A18513700

On November 27, 1983, Harris pulled up to a 21-year-old female who was waiting for a bus. He flagged her over to his car. She thought it was someone she worked with and walked over, only then realizing she had no idea who Harris was. Harris asked her if she wanted a ride. She said no and turned to walk away when Harris grabbed her and pulled her into his car.

He then drove her around while telling her to remove her pants. He pulled into a side street and started to molest her, grabbing her legs and crotch. She eventually managed to escape his car. She hid until she thought it was safe and then went looking for help. Harris, who had changed his clothing, found her and tried to grab her again. She managed to successfully flee from him after that.

On December 30, 1984, Harris offered to give a different woman a ride. She accepted. Harris said he needed to make a quick stop someplace else. She became concerned when she realized that Harris was driving the wrong way to get to where they were supposed to go. He then started groping her and got his hand into her pants. She struggled with him, fought him off, and managed to jump out of the car as it was moving down a highway.

On January 23, 1985, Harris pulled up to yet another girl and offered to give her a ride. She accepted. Quickly thereafter, she realized he was not driving her to where she asked to go. Instead, he drove her from the middle of Hamilton County to Butler County. Once there, Harris ordered her to take her pants off. When she hesitated, he struck her in the face. He then raped her and threw her out of the car.

Two days later, on January 25, Harris found another young lady who was walking home from visiting her grandmother. He pulled up to her, got out and behind her, and put a knife to her throat. He then made her get into his car and drove her miles away. He pulled into a secluded area and, at knife point, forced her to perform oral sex on him before vaginally raping her. He then drove to another location where he forced the same sex acts. He then drove her to yet another location and pushed her out of his car.

Being in prison has done nothing to stop Harri’s sexual assaults. As his institutional summary report indicates, he has touched and harassed multiple inmates in a sexual manner.

Harris repeatedly molested and raped at least three different people. He physically assaulted them. When they escaped, he tried to hunt them down. Harris is a violent rapist. The day he is released from prison is the day yet another young woman will be at risk of being kidnapped, beaten, and raped. Harris should not, therefore, be granted any type of early release. He should spend the rest of his life serving his sentence.

Public Hearing Comments

Hamilton County files suit against drug companies over inflated insulin prices

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:30:01 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor files suite against drug companies over inflated insulin prices

Hamilton County has filed a lawsuit against major pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx, along with drug manufacturers Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, and Sanofi, alleging they unlawfully inflated the price of insulin and other diabetes medications for years.

The county claims it paid excessively high prices for insulin for its employees and dependents due to an illegal pricing scheme between manufacturers and PBMs. The lawsuit seeks financial compensation for taxpayers and health plan members and a court order to stop the alleged practices.

The suit was filed by the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners with County Prosecutor Connie Pillich.

“Some healthcare companies are prioritizing profits over patients,” Pillich said. “Our goal is to protect taxpayers and hold those responsible accountable.”

The Board of Hamilton County Commissioners is concerned about citizens.

Commission President Stephanie Summerow Dumas: “Insulin is a lifesaving medication that has been around for decades, yet families and employers are paying more than ever to access it. When drug companies and middlemen drive up costs, it hurts our employees, their families, and ultimately taxpayers. That’s why Hamilton County is taking action so we can demand fairness and accountability without putting taxpayers at financial risk, and push for a system that puts people first.”

Commission Vice President Alicia Reece: “When Hamilton County is forced to overpay for prescription drugs, that is taxpayer money that could be going toward road repairs, first responders, or educational opportunities. From 2023 to 2025 alone, diabetes medications were the single highest cost prescription drug category in our county health plan -- nearly $13 million for about 8,800 Hamilton County employees and covered family members. The healthcare system should protect our community, not drain resources from it, and we are taking action to ensure fair prices for lifesaving medications.”

Commissioner Denise Driehaus: “A handful of corporations control most of the insulin market, and families are paying the price. Hamilton County is standing up to hold them accountable and make sure lifesaving medicine is affordable for the people who need it.”

Hamilton County provides health coverage to about 8,800 plan members. From 2023 to 2025, insulin-related costs totaled nearly $13 million.

The federal lawsuit is similar to other litigation across the nation alleging PBMs and manufacturers coordinated to artificially raise insulin prices across the country. The firms representing Hamilton County are working on a contingent basis, meaning there's no financial risk to county taxpayers from this litigation.

The PBMs named in the lawsuit together control 96 percent of the global market for insulin.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich takes first step to creating Conviction Integrity Unit

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:07:44 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich takes first step to creating Conviction Integrity Unit

CINCINNATI, Ohio - The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office is now accepting applications for the independent director of the Conviction Integrity Unit, a newly established position dedicated to advancing the principles of fairness, accountability, and equal justice under the law.

The Conviction Integrity Unit will be a specialized unit operating under Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich that investigates and litigates claims of wrongful conviction and sentencing inequities. The director will serve as the founding leader of the Conviction Integrity Unit and will be responsible for building and overseeing its operations from the ground up.

“The creation of the Conviction Integrity Unit reflects our office’s commitment to ensuring that justice is done in every case,” Pillich said. “This position is critical to maintaining public trust and safeguarding the integrity of our justice system.”

Pillich’s goal is to have the unit operational with the director, an investigator and paralegal by mid-year.

“I want to thank the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners - President Stephanie Summerow Dumas, Alicia Reece and Denise Driehaus - for funding the unit,” Pillich said. “Their support reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the integrity of the criminal justice system and maintaining public trust.”

Pillich, who was elected in 2024 and took office in January of 2025, is the first Democrat prosecutor in Hamilton County in 92 years. The Conviction Integrity Unit is being funded as part of her first budget. It will operate under nationally established best practices.

Application details can be found on the office website at hcpros.org/join-our-team .

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich comments on Christmas Day shooting in West End

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:48:39 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich comments on Christmas Day shooting in West End

James Brown, 58, of the West End, was arraigned Thursday on charges related to the Christmas Day shooting of his former girlfriend and her two children.

Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge Virginia Tallent continued bond at $900,000 on six charges of felonious assault and a charge of weapons under disability.

“This was a deliberate and terrifying act of domestic violence that escalated into a public shooting,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “This case underscores the very real danger posed when domestic disputes turn violent and spill into our community. We are committed to holding the defendant fully accountable and will seek justice for the victim and her family.”

Early the morning of Dec. 25, Brown went to the victim’s home and began kicking on the door. A relative of the victim diffused the situation and Brown left. The woman and her relative then left to go pick up her children. When they arrived back home Brown was waiting for them. They drove away to avoid Brown, but Brown followed them. When the woman stopped on Central Avenue in the West End, Brown approached the car and shot the woman and the two children, ages 10 and 15.

Brown fled but was arrested later that day. He was indicted on Jan. 2.

Brown faces up to 49 years in prison.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich sets record straight

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 19:05:34 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich sets record straight

On Dec. 22, Hamilton County Coroner Dr. Sammarco released a press statement and called multiple news agencies, during which she shared incorrect information about decades-old evidence in the Elwood Jones case. Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich would like to set the record straight.

The coroner did NOT uncover new information about the victim’s medical history. She reviewed a laboratory report belonging to Elwood Jones and mistakenly attributed Mr. Jones’s negative Hepatitis B test result to the victim. This was a misreading of a test done through the coroner’s office, not a correction of any prior diagnosis involving the victim and not newly discovered evidence.

The record is clear. On Sept. 8, 1994, testing done through the coroner’s office showed Rhoda Nathan had Hepatitis B. This test was stipulated to by both parties in a federal habeas action. On Sept. 16, 1994, testing done through the coroner’s office showed Elwood Jones did not have Hepatitis B.

Accuracy matters, particularly in cases this significant. Assigning the wrong test result to the wrong individual leads to incorrect public conclusions and unnecessary confusion. We are correcting the record so the facts are clear and properly understood.

Prosecutor Pillich is surprised the coroner would rush to a judgement before having a conversation with the prosecutor’s office, where prosecutors who have long handled this case would have been happy to share a full understanding of the facts.

“We do not take this matter lightly,” Pillich said. “A man’s life is at stake. And a victim and her family are still without justice. There is no excuse to get the facts wrong, as happened here. I and my team spent months reviewing this case. I am confident we came to the right conclusion.”

Prosecutor Pillich is requesting that the coroner rescind her incorrect statement of the records and apologize to the community and Mr. Jones for the chaos she caused. “I can’t imagine the impact this fake information had on Rhoda Nathan’s family,” Pillich added.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich dismisses 1995 capital murder case

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 19:15:01 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich dismisses 1995 capital murder case

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today that she dismissed the 1995 capital murder case against Elwood Jones. The decision follows a months-long, comprehensive review of the evidence and court filings.

This review was conducted in response to a 2022 decision by Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge Wende Cross overturning Jones’ conviction and granting him a new trial.

Pillich filed a notice of dismissal earlier today, which was signed by Judge Cross.

The previous prosecutor had appealed Cross’ decision. On December 4, 2025, the Ohio Supreme Court affirmed the appeal, clarifying Ohio’s legal standard for the right to appeal such cases. Pillich emphasized, however, that the Jones case must be evaluated based on the decades of facts that have been litigated.

“I did not take this extraordinary step lightly,” Pillich said. “But after reviewing the evidence, I am not convinced that Mr. Jones killed Rhoda Nathan.”

Jones was convicted in the 1994 death of Nathan in a Blue Ash motel. Jones spent 27 years on death row before being released pending the appeal.

Pillich’s review addressed several critical issues:

• A lack of physical or forensic evidence directly linking Jones to the murder.

• Insufficient follow-up on multiple witness statements pointing to alternative suspects.

• Modern-day medical testing excluded Jones as a suspect.

• Prior failure of the prosecutor’s office to provide the defense with a large volume of investigatory material before trial.

“A new trial, without evidence, witnesses and up-to-date science would be futile,” Pillich said. “Make no mistake, Rhoda Nathan’s life matters greatly to me. My duty is to administer justice with integrity. I work every day on behalf of victims and this community to ensure public safety. Today’s decision does not change that commitment.”

Pillich is currently establishing a Conviction Integrity Unit that will follow national best practices to research and review claims of wrongful conviction and unjust sentencing.

“Had such a unit existed years ago, this decision may have been reached much sooner,” she said.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictments in street racing case

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 21:48:28 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictments in street racing case

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today the indictment of five people on charges of street racing and failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer.

The men are part of a group of more than 60 people who have been riding dirt bikes and ATVs throughout the city doing burnouts and wheelies. Cincinnati Police have attempted to stop the group several times as they ran red lights, blocked traffic and rode on sidewalks. These charges relate to an Aug. 23 incident on Reading Road.

Officers since then identified the defendants through investigatory work.

Today’s indictment brings the total number of people charged in the incident to 15 and the investigation is continuing.

Those indicted today:

Jarrett Prater, 22, of Hamiton

Joshua Ludlum, 20, of Mount Washington

Dartanion Battle, 24, of Avondale

Devin Metts, 26, of Sycamore Township

Isaiah Klein, 24, of West Price Hill

The additional defendants were indicted on the same charges on Sept. 10 in case B2504815.

The five men chronicled their activity on social media and in cell phone conversations. Police collected more than 4,000 video files related to the case.

The five men face up to five years in prison on the felony charge of failure to comply with a police order and up to 180 days in the jail on the misdemeanor street racing charge.

“Throughout the summer, I have heard numerous complaints about dangerous street takeovers like this,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “ This is not a game. These reckless actions endanger not only the riders, but everyone around them. My office will continue to hold those responsible accountable.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in Corryville attack

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:21:58 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in corryville attack

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today the indictment of six people in connection with a violent street attack on Short Vine in Corryville that left three people with injuries, two of them severely hurt.

On Oct. 3, the six people were indicted on charges of aggravated riot and felonious assault related to the first male victim. They are: Kenneth Bolin, 21, of Corbin, Ky.; Austin Smith, 20, of Paris, Ky.; Joshua Ansteatt, 18, of Florence, Ky.; Hayley Hornsby, 18, of Cleves; Deontae Conyers, 19, of West Price Hill; and Brayden Hall, 18, of Batavia.

On Oct. 8, the six people were additionally indicted on charges of felonious assault and assault related to a second male and female victim.

The incident occurred at 1:30 a.m. on Sept. 13, when the three victims were walking home after picking up a pizza. They passed a large crowd of people during which one of the defendants asked for the pizza. When the victims refused, one of the defendants stuck the first male victim in the head from behind. The victim kept walking, but he was struck again, this time knocked out.

As the first victim lay on the ground, between eight and 12 people joined in, kicking and punching him. He suffered a broken jaw, a black eye, cuts, and bruises. The second man was seriously injured trying to shield his friend’s head, sustaining a concussion, dislocated jaw, punctured lip, cuts, and bruises. The woman suffered a facial injury in the attack. The attackers fled when officers arrived at the scene.

“I am not going to tolerate random attacks on our streets,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Everyone should be safe walking home with a late-night pizza or enjoying Cincinnati’s nightlife without fear of being attacked.”

If convicted, the defendants face up to 17.5 years in prison on the felony charges and up to 180 days in jail on the misdemeanor assault charge.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in firework attack on people experiencing homelessness

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:35:22 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in firework attack on people experiencing homelessness

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today the indictment of a man who, for his own entertainment, threw fireworks at a man and woman experiencing homelessness.

Charles Mitchell, 22, of Fairfield, is scheduled to be arraigned today at 10 a.m. before Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Katie Casch on two charges of aggravated arson, each first-degree felonies for the incident last August.

“Fortunately, the victims were not physically harmed, but there must be justice,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “I will not tolerate acts of violence that prey on the most vulnerable people in our community.”

The incident occurred on Aug. 21, 2024, at an abandoned bank building on Colerain Avenue in Camp Washington where the victims were sheltering under the drive-through.

Mitchell, who was in a car, threw a canister-shell firework near where the man and woman were sleeping. Both were able to escape without injury.

Mitchell was arrested on Sept. 15. If convicted, he faces up to 22 years in prison. He is being held in the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $30,000 bond.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich seeks community support to oppose parole of "Senior Stalker"

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:41:33 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich seeks community support to oppose parole of "senior stalker"

The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office is asking for community assistance to oppose the possible parole of Dale Jackson, infamously known as the “Senior Stalker” for his deliberate targeting of elderly victims.

In the fall of 1987, Jackson terrorized senior citizens across Cincinnati. His victims, ranging in age from 61 to 95, were attacked in their homes after he forced entry by deception or violence. Once inside, Jackson often strangled and choked his victims while threatening to rape them if they did not give him money.

Although Jackson was ultimately convicted of crimes against eight people, he admitted to targeting at least 15 victims. He received a prison sentence of 90 to 150 years.

Earlier this year, Jackson was considered for parole. Despite opposition from the prosecutor’s office, the Ohio Parole Board has recommended his release.

“Jackson preyed on the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “We want to ensure he’s never given the chance to harm anyone again.”

Pillich is urging the Ohio Parole Board to reconsider its recommendation. To strengthen this effort, the office is seeking relatives, friends, or community members who can share how Jackson’s crimes affected victims and their families.

Because Jackson specifically targeted elderly citizens, it is believed that most of his direct victims are deceased. Their loved ones, however, may be able to provide testimony about the devastating impact of his crimes.

If you or someone you know has information about Jackson’s victims and would like to help prevent his release, please contact the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office no later than Friday, October 10, 2025.

CONTACT:

Phone: 513-946-3205

Email: Prosecutor@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces life sentence in double murder case

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 16:14:37 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces life sentence in double murder case

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today that Desean Brown has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading guilty in the 2020 murders of Nyteisha Lattimore and her 3-year-old son, Nylo.

Under the plea agreement, the death penalty was removed as a sentencing option. Brown, 25, pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated murder, guaranteeing he will never be free again. While the evidence was strong, the plea spares the victims’ family years of painful appeals. The agreement was initially offered under the prior administration but was finalized after Brown was recently found competent to stand trial.

Investigators determined that Brown fatally stabbed Nyteisha Lattimore on or about Dec. 5, 2020, in her Walnut Hills apartment. Hours later, in the early morning of Dec. 6, Brown killed Nylo by throwing him in the Ohio River. On Dec. 11, Brown placed Nyteisha’s body in a bag and left it on the Purple People Bridge, where it was discovered the next day. Nylo’s body has never been found.

“What Brown did was ruthless, and this plea deal reflects that,” said Prosecutor Pillich. “ This sentence delivers justice for both Nyteisha and Nylo.”

Arraignment set for Colerain Township man indicted after shooting at Police Officers

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 12:04:16 GMT

Arraignment set for Colerain Township man indicted after shooting at Police Officers

Mark Bramble, 39, of Colerain Township, is scheduled to be arraigned Friday morning at 9 a.m. in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court on a 13-count indictment for firing at police officers during a chase.

On the evening of Aug. 29, Colerain Police officers responded to a domestic dispute on Deshler Drive, where Bramble had threatened neighbors. When officers arrived, Bramble also threatened them. As officers attempted to make an arrest, Bramble fled in his car. At one point during the pursuit, Bramble stopped and fired one shot at officers.

The chase ended near the Northgate Mall when an officer shot Bramble, injuring him. No officers were harmed, but the shot shattered a police cruiser windshield.

Bramble was indicted earlier this week on a 13-count indictment. He was charged with three counts of felonious assault, discharge of a firearm on or near prohibited premises, failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer, resisting arrest, having weapons under disability, carrying concealed weapons, three counts of aggravated menacing, obstructing official business and disorderly conduct.

If convicted on all charges, Bramble faces up to 64 and half years in prison. The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office will seek a high bond.

“Mark Bramble’s conduct endangered both law enforcement and the community,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “We are fortunate no officers were injured. We will not tolerate such blatant disregard for community safety.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in murder of pregnant woman

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:53:36 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in murder of pregnant woman

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today that the grand jury has indicted three men for their roles in the killing of 26-year-old India Kinamore on March 4, 2023. Kinamore was pregnant at the time and due to give birth that day.

At approximately 6 a.m. that morning Kinamore was fatally shot in her Colerain Township home. The crime was staged to look like a burglary and robbery, but that was a ruse, investigators determined.

The three defendants, Kayvon Warren, 30, Robert Ervin, 20, and Lamar Morris Suggs, 22, were charged on a 13-count indictment including four counts of aggravated murder, as well as charges of burglary and felonious assault. Warren and Morris Suggs are also charged with having a weapon while under disability.

Warren has been identified as the father of Kinamore’s unborn child. Investigators learned that Warren had pressured Kinamore to have an abortion, but law prevented it. At the time he was involved with another woman and facing severe financial hardship, including the loss of his home.

The investigation revealed that Warren conspired with the co-defendants to kill Kinamore. Evidence shows the men met shortly before the shooting and Warren even requested bereavement leave from his job prior to the death, a detail that underscores the premeditated nature of the crime.

“This should have been one of the happiest days of India’s life,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “ Instead, the father of the child conspired with two others to kill her. It is heartbreaking. My office will see that justice is done for both India and her baby.”

Pillich wishes to thank the Colerain Police detectives for their relentless work investigating this case, which involved dozens of interviews, scrutiny of financial records and reviews of phone records.

The men face a possible life prison sentence.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment of Delhi man for severely injuring infant

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 19:06:03 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment of delhi man for severely injuring infant

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces today the indictment of a 30-year-old Delhi Township man for severely injuring a child.

Alexander Grimme was indicted on two charges of endangering children, felonious assault and strangulation involving a child who was nine months old at the time.

On Jan. 21, 2025, Grimme was babysitting the child in a Delhi Township home when the infant suffered abusive head trauma.

The baby became unresponsive at 11 a.m. and Grimme took the child to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, where doctors determined the injuries were non-accidental. The child sustained permanent brain damage and now faces serious developmental delays.

Grimme faces up to 22 years in prison.

“This child’s life has been forever changed in the most tragic way,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “It is heartbreaking and infuriating that somebody trusted to care for a baby could cause such harm. We will make sure he is held accountable.”

Grimme will be arraigned Friday morning in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court.

Grimme is facing separate charges in Franklin County, Indiana that allege he injured the same child.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in pride flag arsons

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:59:42 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in pride flag arsons

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces the indictment of a man who targeted the homes of people displaying Pride flags and bunting.

Thomas Niehaus, 52, was indicted on seven charges of aggravated arson and three charges of arson related to nine flags or bunting that were burned in the Cincinnati neighborhoods of Clifton and Northside. In one instance, the fire was set to a yard sign with a picture of a Ukrainian flag.

In seven of the offenses, which were all committed on July 30, the flags and bunting were attached to homes.

“I am deeply disturbed and outraged by these arsons,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “These were not acts of random vandalism. They were targeted, hateful attempts to intimidate and silence members of our community. Everyone deserves to feel safe and seen in their own neighborhoods. We will not tolerate hate in any form, and we stand firmly with our LGBTQIA+ neighbors, so they know they are supported, valued, and protected.”

While Ohio has a law aimed at protecting people from ethnic intimidation, it does not cover sexual orientation or gender identity. It enhances the penalty for certain lower-level offenses but does not apply to aggravated arson.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in July 26 attack

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:31:45 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in July 26 attack

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich today announces the indictment of six people related to the July 26 attack at Fourth and Elm Streets in Downtown Cincinnati.

The six people were indicted on eight charges each: Three counts of felonious assault, three charges of assault and two charges of aggravated rioting.

The defendants face up to 29.5 years in prison.

Those indicted are:

Montianez Merriweather, 34, 3825 Herron Ave., Cincinnati

Patrick Rosemond, 39, address unknown

Dominique Kittle, 37, 1105 Dayton St., Cincinnati

Dekyra Vernon, 24, 3663 Clarion Ave., Cincinnati

Jermaine Mathews, 39, 2415 Kenton St., Cincinnati

Aisha Devaugh, 26, 835 Poplar St., Cincinnati

Ohio’s aiding the abetting law is an underlying premise of this case. Essentially, anyone who assists or facilitates the commission of a crime, even without directly committing the act, can face the same penalties as the principal offender.

“What I saw on video is not the Cincinnati I know and love,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “These charges hold those involved in the attack accountable.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich praises County Stadium deal with Cincinnati Bengals

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:55:47 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich praises County Stadium deal with Cincinnati Bengals

“ This outcome is the result of tireless collaboration from Hamilton County officials, our assistant prosecutors, our external legal team at Dinsmore, David Abrams with Inner Circle, and the Bengals’ willingness to engage, even in difficult conversations. I’m deeply grateful to everyone involved. The Bengals are woven into the fabric of Hamilton County, and this agreement ensures they’ll remain a vital part of our community’s future. It's a victory for all of us.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces indictment in rape case stemming from video game chat

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 20:49:16 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich ANNOUNCES indictment in rape case stemming from video game chat

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of a man who met an 11-year-old girl online, then met her in person and raped her.

Chevalier Adams, 39, of Avondale, was indicted on three charges of rape, as well as charges of kidnapping, importuning and grooming.

Adams met the girl through the online game Zepeto and began an online chat relationship with her in February. On July 20, Adams picked up the girl at her home and drove her to his home, where he raped her.

Adams is facing up to 26 years in prison. He was arrested and is being held in the Hamilton County Justice Center.

“ We will do everything possible to hold Chevalier Adams accountable for taking advantage of a young girl, who through no fault of her own, was tricked and coerced by a stranger,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Online predators are increasingly using video game chats and other digital platforms to target young people. I urge parents to stay vigilant. Please know who your children are talking to, monitor their online activity, and have open conversations about internet safety. What may seem like harmless gaming can quickly turn dangerous.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich urges public to oppose parole of "Senior Stalker"

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:42:35 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich URGES PUBLIC TO OPPOSE PAROLE OF "SENIOR STALKER"

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich is calling on the public to oppose parole for Dale Jackson, a violent offender dubbed the “Senior Stalker” because he specifically targeted elderly victims.

Jackson’s violent crime spree began in the fall 1987 and only ended when he was arrested in March 1988. Before he was apprehended, he terrorized elderly victims across Hamilton County by forcing his way into their homes, assaulting them, and stealing their belongings.

While Jackson was ultimately convicted of multiple counts of aggravated robbery, robbery, and aggravated burglary for crimes against eight individuals, he confessed to committing at least 15 such robberies. His known victims were 61 to 95 years old.

For his violent crimes, Jackson was sentenced to 90-150 years in prison. Next month, the Ohio Parole Board will be considering whether to release him on parole.

Prosecutor Pillich is urging citizens to write to the Ohio Parole Board and request that Jackson be denied parole.

“Dale Jackson terrorized our community for months,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “He violently and deliberately targeted the most vulnerable among us. I have no doubt that if he is released, he’ll reoffend. My job is to protect this community from predators like him, and I urge the parole board to do the same.”

People who wish to voice their opposition may submit letters prior to its August 30, 2025, hearing.

Write to the Ohio Parole Board:

Via Prosecutor Pillich’s website:

Go to hcpros.org/pending-hearings and click on Dale Jackson’s photo.

Via written letter:

Ohio Parole Board
Adult Parole Authority
770 West Broad Street
Columbus, Ohio 43222-1419

When sending a written letter, be sure to include “Dale Jackson, Inmate No. A209027.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in drug-related death

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:31:27 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in drug-related death

A 29-year-old Evanston man was indicted today in connection with a drug-related death after selling the victim a fentanyl compound that killed her.

Malik Mabrey was indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter, corrupting another with drugs, and trafficking in a fentanyl-related compound for the death of a 26-year-old Sycamore Township woman.

On Aug. 3, 2023 – the same day the victim was released from a 30-day drug treatment program -- Mabrey sold fentanyl to the woman, who had previously been his client. He arranged to meet her at a gas station, instructed her on which bus to take and how to get there. The woman died the following day of a drug overdose.

At the time of the sale, Mabrey had been out of prison for a little more than 16 months after serving a 4.5-year sentence for drug trafficking.

“Malik Mabrey was given the chance to turn his life around,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Instead, he exploited a young woman at her most vulnerable. When you sell deadly drugs and somebody dies, you will be held accountable. Period.”

Pillich additionally thanked the Hamilton County Heroin Task Force for its relentless work on this case.

Mabrey faces up to 20 years in prison.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in shooting of 17-year-old

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 22:37:54 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in shooting of 17-year-old

A 24-year-old man already in jail and facing murder charges for killing a woman on June 9 was indicted today in the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old boy that occurred six days earlier.

Malik Blanchard, 24, of Roselawn, was indicted on two charges of murder, two charges of felonious assault, and one charge of improper discharge of a firearm into a habitation in the death of the 17-year-old and for shooting at, but not striking, a 12-year-old who was with the victim.

On June 3, the 17-year-old and the 12-year-old were outside a Percy Avenue home in Westwood when they were approached by a woman who said she wanted to fight the 12-year-old’s mother and aunt. Blanchard was with that woman. Blanchard then pulled out a gun, pointed it at the victim and the 12-year-old, and started firing. The boys ran to the home. The 12-year-old made it safely inside, but the 17-year-old was shot as he entered the home. Blanchard fled.

That investigation was ongoing when, six days later in English Woods, Blanchard fatally shot a 22-year-old woman and another man injuring him. Blanchard was arrested the same day and indicted on two counts of aggravated murder, two counts of murder, aggravated burglary, two counts of felonious assault, and one count of improperly discharging a firearm into a habitation.

In the June 9 case, Blanchard was allegedly assaulted at a party outside an apartment complex on Westwood Northern Boulevard. Blanchard then went inside to retrieve a gun. A neighbor opened his apartment door to see what the commotion was. That is when Blanchard shot him and killed the 22-year- old victim, who was also inside the apartment. Neither had been at the party.

Blanchard is being held in the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $1.5 million bond. He faces a life sentence. These cases are not connected.

“I am grateful to the Cincinnati Police Department for getting this killer off the streets,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “My heart goes out to the families of the victims. My office will do everything necessary to ensure justice is served and Blanchard never threatens this community again.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictments in drowning death of infant

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 18:56:32 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictments in drowning death of infant

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictments of Degary Burbridge and Kiara Nettles in the drowning death of their 5-month-old child.

Burbridge, 19 and Nettles, 19, of West Price Hill, were indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, and child endangering in the May 16 death. The couple left the infant alone in the bathroom where the infant was placed in a baby bathtub filled with water. It was a third party who asked about the child, prompting Burbridge and Nettles to check on the child.

They found the infant face down and unresponsive in the bathtub. The child drowned.

“There is absolutely no justification for leaving an infant unattended near water – under any circumstances,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “This child’s death was not just a tragedy; it was entirely preventable and should never have happened.”

Burbridge and Nettles each face up to 17 years in prison.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces conclusion of Daniel Carter Beard Bridge arson case

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:03:46 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces conclusion of Daniel Carter Beard Bridge arson case

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the conclusion of the arson case that caused more than $11 million in damage to the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge. The fire not only damaged the bridge but also disrupted commuting for months and impacted the local economy.

Many rumors circulated about who set the Nov. 1 fire, why they set it, and how it started. The investigation found that Terry Stiles, 39, of Arlington Heights, purposely set debris and brush under the bridge on fire using a lighter. Stiles eventually admitted to setting the fire and said he had been setting fires his whole life.

Stiles pleaded guilty to aggravated arson and arson for setting the fire. He was sentenced to nine to thirteen and a half years in prison, followed by five years of post-release control.

“This case was solved by the exhaustive work of Cincinnati Fire Department fire investigators and collaborative work with our office,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Stiles had no regard for the community and, quite frankly, is lucky nobody was killed. He deserves every day of his sentence.”

All four suspects connected to the case have been convicted and sentenced. The bridge spans the Ohio River, connecting Ohio and Kentucky, and is a key commuting route for the region.

Stiles, Stumpf, and Hall, on Halloween night, drove around looking for scooters—a scam in which they intended to steal scooters, replace the batteries, and sell them. They were doing this at Sawyer Point when, early the morning of Nov. 1, Stiles and Stumpf wandered over to the 1000 Hands Playground. Stiles gathered debris and used a lighter to ignite it. It didn’t immediately catch, and Stiles fanned it out before the trio drove away.

Nearby cameras show the fire ignited and grew over the next seven minutes before the playground caught fire and the flames spread to the bridge.

It took several months, but eventually Stiles confessed. Stiles, after a co-defendant first confessed, said: “I did it.” Stiles spent the next 15 minutes confessing. He also admitted to starting fires for years.

“Fire Investigators did such a wonderful job with the interview of Stiles, that at the conclusion of the confession, Stiles told the fire Investigators he loved them and thanked them for keeping Cincinnati safe from criminals,” Pillich said. “Stiles did not recognize the irony in his statement.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces results 0f May 1, 2025 officer-involved shooting review

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 18:10:31 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces results 0f May 1, 2025 officer-involved shooting review

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced that the Cincinnati Police officer involved in the May 1, 2025 death of Ryan Hinton was legally justified in his use of force.

“When Ryan Hinton was confronted by officers about a stolen car, he not only had a gun, with a fully loaded magazine and a bullet in the chamber, but he pointed it at Officer A,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Officer A made a split-second decision that likely saved his life and the lives of other officers.”

The review process is designed to look at all the facts. What’s important is that it’s fair, thorough and transparent.

“I am confident that goal has been achieved, ” Pillich said.

The final forensics report was recently delivered to the prosecutor’s office.

Pillich made the determination after reviewing all the available evidence. The shooting was not presented to a grand jury.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in OTR fatal stabbing

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:11:34 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in OTR fatal stabbing

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces the indictment of Mordecia Black in the death of Patrick Heringer.

Black, 38. was indicted on 14 charges: three counts of aggravated murder, five counts of murder, three counts of felonious assault, aggravated burglary, burglary, and trespassing into a habitation. He faces at a maximum, life in prison without the possibility of parole.

At around 4:30 a.m. on June 4, Black trespassed into the East McMicken Avenue home of a couple who lived in Over-the-Rhine. Black was armed with a knife. When homeowner Patrick Heringer confronted Black, Black fatally stabbed Heringer and fled the scene. Heringer died protecting his family and the love of his life.

Black was arrested on June 5. He is being held in the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $2,250,000 bond.

“The Heringers did everything society asked of them,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich said. “They followed the law. They invested and lived in the urban core. They are beloved members of the Downtown and Over-the-Rhine communities. Mordecia Black coldly, and ruthlessly, murdered Patrick Heringer in Patrick’s own home as Patrick tried to protect his wife, Sarah. Black should never see another day of freedom.”

Black violated the conditions of his post release control by cutting off his ankle monitor. He had served over eight years in prison. He fled from state oversight, showing his complete lack of regard for the law.

“Last week, I met with Sarah Heringer and expressed my condolences,” Pillich said. “Sarah is courageous to speak out. I promise to work with her to help resolve the obvious holes in our system - specifically in detection and apprehension of the violent criminals walking among us.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces outcome of Neo-Nazi Rally review

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 19:52:29 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces outcome of Neo-Nazi Rally review

The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office has determined that no prosecutable offenses were identified when a group of neo-Nazis gathered on February 7 in the Village of Evendale.

After a thorough review of the evidence provided by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department and the Evendale Police Department, the prosecutor’s office concluded that no prosecutable offense occurred during the Feb. 7 incident, based on state and local laws.

This review focused solely on potential violations of criminal statutes or ordinances. It did not evaluate law enforcement tactics used during the incident, nor did it address administrative policies, procedures, or potential civil liability.

Although the February gathering did not result in criminal charges, it posed a serious risk of violence and harm. Law enforcement’s immediate priority was to de-escalate the situation and prevent violence - a goal they achieved.

The presence and message of neo-Nazis are unacceptable, and the community responded appropriately. Our nation has fought hard to defeat Nazism and its destructive ideology. We must not only reject these messages but also work every day to build a community that embraces diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect.

The community responded swiftly and forcefully to condemn the hateful rhetoric. That energy must now be channeled into sustained action: strengthening community bonds, supporting anti-hate initiatives, and ensuring that all residents feel safe and valued.

We will continue to stand together to confront hate - not just in words, but through ongoing, decisive action.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in animal cruelty case

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 19:41:39 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in animal cruelty case

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces the indictment of an East Price Hill man on a felony animal cruelty charge for strangling his dog.

Richard Orth, 59, of East Price Hill, was indicted Monday on a charge of cruel treatment of companion animals. He faces up to a year in prison.

On May 23, Orth brought his elderly dog, Tinkerbell, to the Animal Hospital of Delhi Hills on Anderson Ferry Road. The veterinarian determined the dog needed to be euthanized and quoted Orth a price of $500.

When staff left the room to prepare the medication, Orth could be heard on audio from the room saying, “Go be with God. I won’t let you suffer. $500 is highway robbery.”

Orth then strangled Tinkerbell, causing injuries to the dog’s neck and throat. Tinkerbell then had to be euthanized.

“There’s no excuse for what happened here,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Our office is committed to holding those accountable who harm animals.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces prison sentence in Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire

Wed, 28 May 2025 19:25:10 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces prison sentence in Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire

Two men pleaded guilty Wednesday for their role in setting a fire that caused more than $11 million in damage to the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge.

The bridge spans the Ohio River, connecting Ohio and Kentucky, and is a key commuting bridge for the region. The fire shut down the southbound lanes of the bridge for 100 days, causing traffic backups that affected thousands of drivers and impacted local businesses.

Terry Stiles, 39, of Arlington Heights, pleaded guilty to aggravated arson and arson for setting the Nov. 1 fire. Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Patrick Dinkelacker sentenced Stiles to spend nine to 13 and a half years in prison, followed by five years of post-release control.

Zachary Stumpf, 23, of Owensville, pleaded guilty to a charge of obstructing official business. Stumpf faces up to three years in prison. He will be sentenced on June 26.

Two other suspects, Kaitlen Hall, 25, and James Hamilton, 26, both of Arlington Heights, will have their cases heard at later dates.

The fire damaged the bridge, Interstate 471, and destroyed a Cincinnati Parks playground under the bridge.

“This case was solved by the exhaustive work of Cincinnati Fire Department fire investigators and collaborative work with our office,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “Mr. Stiles called this a ‘stupid decision’ and apologized, but that doesn’t negate the impact his actions had on this community for months. This sentence holds him accountable for the disruption he caused.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in serial rapist cold case

Wed, 28 May 2025 17:11:45 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in serial rapist cold case

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces the indictment of two men in a series of rape cases - one rape that happened 25 years ago.

Smiley Watts, 68, raped three women and attempted to rape a fourth woman. The cases were solved after one of the women came forward after being raped in January of this year. She immediately reported what happened and a months-long investigation into Watts began.

Cincinnati Police detectives ended up linking Watts to three other cases which occurred in 2000, 2015, and 2019 via DNA evidence and extensive database research.

In each instance, Watts is accused of preying on women he met on the street or in treatment facilities.

On May 19, 2000: Watts met a woman he knew for several weeks prior in her home, punched her, and then raped her. The woman was 28 years old at the time and is now 53 years old.

On March 21, 2015: Watts met a woman he knew for several weeks in her home, placed her in a chokehold and attempted to rape her. The woman was 46 years old at the time and is now 56 years old.

On Feb. 16, 2019: Watts met a woman downtown and went back to his home with her. Once there, Watts pinned down the woman’s hands and raped her despite her saying no multiple times. The woman was 28 years old at the time and is now 34 years old. A second man, James Moore, was also present and raped the woman right after Watts raped her.

On Jan. 3, 2025: Watts raped a 36-year-old woman he met at a local rehabilitation center. She invited him to her home while he waited for a ride. Once inside, Watts shoved her onto her bed, physically restrained her, and threatened her with a gun before raping her.

Watts was indicted on three charges of rape and a charge of attempted rape. He was arrested on May 21, 2025, and is being held in the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $250,000 bond. Moore, 63, was indicted on one charge of rape.

Cincinnati Police detectives believe there could be more cases and are urging women to come forward with information about either suspect.

“These are heinous crimes women have had to live with all these years,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “In one case, 25 years has passed. But the law has finally caught up with these men. We will seek justice for the women and ensure accountability for these monstrous acts.”

The four charges Watts was indicted on carry a repeat violent offender specification which carries a possible life prison term.

For questions, please call Hamilton County Communications Director Sharon Coolidge at 513-946-3278 or Cincinnati Police Lt. Jonathan Cunningham at Jonathan.Cunningham@cincinnati-oh.gov

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in abuse case

Fri, 23 May 2025 17:11:37 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in abuse case

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces the indictment of a caretaker who abused a mentally disabled 16-year-old girl and then destroyed evidence.

Kittie Sanders, 57, of Springfield Township, was indicted on charges of patient endangerment, failure to care for a functionally impaired person, failure to report abuse, felonious assault, aggravated assault, tampering with evidence and obstruction of justice.

The abuse took place from December of 2022 to January of 2023. Sanders was previously indicted, but the case was dismissed.

Sanders was a paid caregiver for the teenager, who is severely disabled and non-verbal. The care was to be in the teenager’s home, but her mother allowed Sanders to take the teenager to Sanders’ home and other places.

The teenager returned home without her pants and with marks on her legs. This concerned the teenager’s mother. But Sanders explained it was a rash, bug bites and possibly shingles. When the teenager’s mother saw a television news story involving burns, she suspected that’s what the marks were and called police. A medical checkup revealed the marks were indeed burns.

“It is hard to fathom how somebody could abuse another person in this way, let alone an incapacitated teenager they were responsible for caring for,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich said. “We will seek a lengthy prison term so this never happens again.”

Sanders faces up to 25 and a half years in prison

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in Forest Park fatal shooting

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:22:39 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in Forest Park fatal shooting

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces the indictment of Domynic Elahee in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Jaeden Smith.

Smith, who was unarmed, was shot on May 5 while trying to protect his younger brother from bullying.

Elahee, 38, of Forest Park, was indicted Tuesday on charges of murder, felony murder and two charges of felonious assault. He faces up to up to life in prison.

Elahee is being arraigned in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court today at 9:30 a.m. Elahee is currently being held in the Hamilton County Justice Center on $1 million bond.

Smith, who was with his 7-year-old brother, knocked on the door of Elahee’s residence just after 6 p.m. hoping to talk to him about Elahee’s son bullying the 7-year-old.

Elahee’s 10-year-old daughter answered the door and Elahee came out of the back bedroom and shot Smith, who was on the porch. Smith’s brother and Elahee’s daughter witnessed the shooting.

“This is heartbreaking,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “ Jaeden was unarmed and attempting to have a conversation about bullying, which was the proper way to handle the situation. Now, two families’ lives are forever changed. We will be seeking the highest possible penalty.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces change in stadium legal team

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:17:44 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces change in stadium legal team

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces new additions to the legal team negotiating Hamilton County’s lease with the Cincinnati Bengals, doing legal work related to The Banks development and the eventual lease with the Cincinnati Reds.

Pillich asked the Board of Hamilton County Commissioners to retain the law firm Dinsmore & Shohl to represent the county’s interests related to the Paycor Stadium lease and The Banks. Pillich asked the board to retain the law firm Vorys , Sater, Seymour & Pease to represent the county’s interests related to the Great American Ball Park lease.

The Board of Hamilton County Commissioners unanimously accepted the recommendation.

“As a citizen I observed the difficulties of negotiations over the years,” Pillich said. “As prosecutor, it is my job to ensure the board of commissioners has all the tools they need. I added top attorneys to the county’s negotiation and legal team to ensure that happens.”

David Abrams, an investment banker with Inner Circle Sports, will remain the lead negotiator. Assistant Hamilton County Prosecutor Roger Friedmann remains a key part of the legal team, providing expertise, continuity and insight into the history of the lease.

“Now, let’s sit down at the table and get a deal done,” Pillich said.

About Dinsmore

With roots in the Queen City since 1908, and its headquarters just blocks from

Cincinnati’s riverfront, Dinsmore is devoting a team of attorneys with deep experience in economic development and familiarity with the challenges surrounding government and professional sports franchises. Additionally the firm’s lawyers are highly skilled in drafting leases.

Dinsmore partners George Vincent, Marty Dunn, Richard Tranter and Charlie Baverman will lead the effort.

The team at Dinsmore is excited for the opportunity to assist the Hamilton County

Prosecutor’s Office and Board of Commissioners in achieving their goals regarding the future of downtown Cincinnati.

About Vorys

Vorys, a full-service business law firm, was established in 1909 and currently has nearly 375 attorneys in 10 offices in Ohio, Washington, D.C., Texas, Pennsylvania, California, London and Berlin. The firm’s Cincinnati office opened in 1984 and has grown to be one of the largest law firms in the city, with more than 80 local attorneys.

Vorys has been named a “Best Law Firm” for real estate law nationally and in Cincinnati. Cincinnati Partner Kristin Woeste will lead the firm’s work for the County on this matter. Kristin leads the firm’s nationwide real estate practice and has decades of experience working on real estate leasing and financing transactions. She will be supported by Dan Bross, who has significant experience assisting property owners and developers in all aspects of real estate transactions. The team will call upon others within the firm with specific experience, focused on economic development and construction.

About David Abrams

Mr. Abrams has over three decades of experience as a lead investment banker and advisor for numerous public and private assembly facilities including the financing of stadiums, arenas, and other sports venues. He has advised on the funding for six NFL stadium projects and is presently working several other stadium and arena projects. He has represented many municipal and private sector clients in the funding or negotiations of over $10 billion of sports facilities.

Regarding the Bengals’ statement:

Hamilton County hired Inner Circle Sports (ICS) due to the firm’s national expertise in negotiating professional sports leases and helping secure favorable terms for taxpayers. The County’s lead contact, David Abrams, brings decades of experience with major league teams and communities, occasionally representing both in the same division. He has never been asked to recuse in the past.

Out of caution, a former ICS team member who had ties to the Cleveland Browns stepped away from any Hamilton County work and subsequently left the firm. That person is working for the Browns under a sub-contracting arrangement with ICS. Mr. Abrams has no involvement with the Browns, their stadium project and/or related matters. This was explained to the team and they were previously given Abrams’ contract and scope of work, which does not include any state lobbying.

ICS has maintained strict confidentiality and has not received or shared proprietary information involving the Bengals or the county. His discussions with the Bengals have been limited to high-level business terms and stadium-related issues.

The team and the county are currently discussing legal mechanisms to address any of the team’s concerns.

“I selected Mr. Abrams for his expertise,” Pillich said. “He’s a bulldog who will get a better deal for Hamilton County taxpayers.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of three involved in critical incident

Mon, 12 May 2025 14:32:42 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of three involved in critical incident

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of three people for an incident that started with a report of a stolen vehicle and ended in a critical incident that resulted in the death of an 18-year-old man.

Cynsere Grigsby, 18, Jurell Austin, 18, and Deanthony Bullocks, 19, were each indicted on seven charges: two charges of obstructing official business, two charges of theft, receiving stolen property, improperly handing a firearm in a motor vehicle and having weapons while under disability.

On the morning of May 1, the Cincinnati Police Department Fugitive Apprehension Squad was alerted to a stolen Kia Telluride parked in East Price Hill. When officers arrived at approximately 9:30 a.m. four people fled the vehicle, prompting a police chase. A loaded firearm that had been stolen in Kentucky was recovered from the stolen vehicle. A second loaded firearm was recovered at the scene outside of the stolen vehicle.

The three defendants in today’s indictment were in the stolen vehicle and ran into nearby woods and were later caught.

The investigation into the death of the 18-year-old man is ongoing and will take some time to complete. Once the investigation is complete, our office will review the evidence. Until the investigation and our review of the evidence are complete, the prosecutor’s office will not be commenting on the situation.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in the intentional killing of deputy

Thu, 08 May 2025 21:13:05 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in the intentional killing of deputy

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of Rodney Hinton Jr. on two charges of aggravated murder, murder, and two charges of felonious assault.

The aggravated murder charges carry the possibility of the death penalty.

Hinton, 38, on May 2, is accused of purposefully running down and killing Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Larry Henderson. Deputy Henderson was a retired deputy who was working a special traffic detail at the University of Cincinnati on graduation day.

Hinton spent the early part of that day at the Cincinnati Police department, where officers told him about a critical incident involving the death of his son. His son was caught in a stolen car with a gun and fled officers. The notification included a review of body-worn camera footage of the incident.

· 9:33 p.m.: Hinton arrived at the police department

· 9:51 p.m.: Hinton got upset and left the building

· 10:37 a.m.: Hinton left with family members, instead of in his own car, which he drove there

· 12:41 p.m.: Hinton returned to pick up his car

· 12:44 p.m.: Hinton left

· 12:49 p.m.: Hinton returned to the police department and drove through the parking lot

· 12:50 p.m.: Hinton left again

At that point evidence shows Hinton ended up driving east on Martin Luther King Drive near Burnett Woods Drive where Deputy Henderson was on a median engaged in traffic control. Deputy Henderson was in uniform and wearing a fluorescent vest, indicating his status as a working police officer. Hinton stopped, waited for traffic to clear, then at roughly 1:05 p.m. drove across multiple lanes of traffic at a high rate of speed targeting the deputy. He struck Deputy Henderson and crashed into a pole before coming to a stop. Henderson died later that night.

“This was a targeted killing of an innocent deputy who was working to protect and serve his community,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich said. “Additionally, Hinton put in danger the lives of many innocent people celebrating a momentous occasion in their lives – college graduation. This is a horrific crimes and my office is treating it as such. This bylaw carries with it the potential death penalty.”

Hinton is being held on no bond.

The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the critical incident involving Hinton’s son as a separate matter, as is routine.

“Please be patient as we review all the evidence,” Pillich said

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Felony Child Endangering Charge in Infant Shooting

Fri, 02 May 2025 22:11:28 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Felony Child Endangering Charge in Infant Shooting

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the felony child endangering indictment of Martez Jones. Jones left a loaded gun in reach of a 5-year-old who used it to accidentally shoot her 7-month-old sister.

Jones, 22, the father of the two children involved in the shooting and a third child who was present during the shooting, is facing three charges of child endangering in the April 19 shooting. The charge related to the infant is a felony.

At around 9 p.m. that day Jones left a loaded pistol on the windowsill of a West Price Hill residence while going to the restroom, according to authorities. The three children were watching television in the room where the gun was left. The infant, who was in a car seat at the time, suffered a leg injury and was treated at the hospital.

The children’s mother was present, but not in the room at the time.

“Thankfully the infant was not more seriously harmed,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “This shows that no gun should ever be within reach of a child, not even for what seems like a brief period. Tragic gun incidents take only seconds to unfold.”

The felony child endangering charge carries a penalty of between 9 and 36 months in prison.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich headlines Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber member briefing May 1

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:09:14 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich headlines Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber member briefing May 1

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich on Thursday will be the keynote speaker at the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber monthly meeting.

The virtual meeting kicks off at 8 a.m. with an update from Chamber President and CEO Brendon Cull. Pillich will then offer insights about her first 100 days in office and her office philosophy.

Participants will have a chance to ask Pillich questions.

“ The Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber is an integral part of growing our business community and economy,” Pillich said. “ I look forward to sharing my vision for how the prosecutor’s office can be a partner in the chamber’s mission.”

All are invited.

“We’re excited to host Prosecutor Pillich as the keynote on this month’s Monthly Member Briefing,” Cull said. “ Each month chamber members and guests hear from our region’s top leaders about the issues driving their work and making a difference.

Tomorrow’s conversation will be a great way to engage with our new Hamilton County prosecutor as she passes the 100-day mark in office.”

To register:

https://portal.cincinnatichamber.com/s/community-event?id=a1mJx000005tnLNIAY

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in downtown hit and run

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:57:31 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in downtown hit and run

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced charges in a hit-and-run assault that left a pedestrian seriously injured.

Jamila Hobbs, 34, of College Hill, was indicted on charges of vehicular assault and failure to stop after an accident on March 12 at 4 p.m. Hobbs faces up to two and one-half years in prison.

On March 12, Hobbs was driving a Kia Sorrento north on Main Street in Downtown Cincinnati when she changed lanes in the 900 block and hit the 40-year-old victim who was walking east across Main Street. Hobbs fled the scene.

The victim suffered serious injuries, including a broken tailbone, broken ankle, and concussion.

“Pedestrian safety is the right of everyone who lives, works, and visits Downtown,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich said. “I urge people to slow down and use care. And when they don’t, as in cases like this, they will be prosecuted.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in Murder over rap video

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:36:28 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in Murder over rap video

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced murder charges in a 2022 murder case that was a retaliatory shooting over a rap video.

Ronell Scott, 24, address unknown, was indicted on charges of purposeful murder, felony murder, felonious assault and aggravated murder in the death of 20-year-old TreShawn Smith. Scott faces up to life in prison.

A warrant has been issued for Scott’s arrest.

On Oct. 22, 2022 the victim was hanging out with friends in the middle of the day at the fountain on Elm Street in Lockland when Scott drove by, shot him in the head, and then fled.

Smith was a musician, and the shooting is related to a rap video he made, according to Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. Several interviews over the years helped authorities identify the killer. The killing came after a feud between two groups that involved making rap videos disrespecting the other groups.

“These killings are senseless,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “ Nothing, especially a perceived slight in a rap video, is worth killing over. Through good investigatory work authorities identified Scott as the shooter. We never give up working to seek justice for victims.”

For questions call Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Communications Director Sharon Coolidge at 513-317-5136 or email her at Sharon.coolidge@hcpros.org.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of man who raped, impregnated 12-year-old girl

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:32:07 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of man who raped, impregnated 12-year-old girl

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced in the indictment of a man accused of raping and impregnating a 12-year-old girl.

The 20-year-old Sharonville man was indicted on three charges of rape, each carrying a penalty of up to 11 years in prison.

The man is accused of repeatedly raping a 12-year-old girl between October 2024 and January 2025. The victim, now 13, is pregnant.

“I will not tolerate abuse of children in this community,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “This adult man preyed on a young girl and stole her innocence. He will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Questions should be directed to Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Director of Communications Sharon Coolidge at 513-317-5136 or Sharon.coolidge@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in Child Endangering Case

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 20:40:15 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in Child Endangering Case

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced an indictment against a 35- year-old Cleves man who locked a 2-year-old special needs child in a bedroom and left the child home alone.

Joshua Merz, 7433 Zion Hill Road, was indicted on two counts of child endangerment, which were filed as a third-degree felony and first-degree misdemeanor for the April 8 incident.

Merz is accused of leaving the child alone for at least seven hours while he went to work.

A neighbor found the child and called the authorities. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office arrived to find the home in a condition they described as filthy and potentially dangerous.

According to the indictment Merz, “recklessly physically restrained” the child in a “cruel manner or for a prolonged period, which restraint was excessive under the circumstances and a created a substantial risk of serious physical harm.”

Pillich said, “There is never a reason to leave a 2-year -old child home alone. It’s our job to make sure those who cannot speak for themselves are protected. And that’s exactly what we will do in this case.”

Merz faces up to three and half years in prison if convicted.

For questions please call Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Communications Director Sharon Coolidge at 513-317-5136 or email her at Sharon.Coolidge@hcpros.org

Prosecutor Connie Pillich marks 100 Days in Office

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:33:10 GMT

Prosecutor Connie Pillich marks 100 days in Office

On April 15, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich marks 100 days in office as the county’s first elected Democrat prosecutor in 92 years and the first elected female prosecutor. She is hard at work on several initiatives that bolster her belief in justice with integrity.

“It is an honor to serve the citizens of Hamilton County,” Pillich said. “ This office’s role in the justice system is important. I am making changes that improve the quality of service, provides transparency and delivers justice with integrity for every citizen.”

Increased Training

A long-time prosecutor is working with prosecutors and building a comprehensive program for new hires and continued education.

Implementing Up-to-Date Technology

Pillich approved a contract with Axon Justice, a cloud-based platform that streamlines evidence management, improves case preparation, and enhances collaboration.

Updated Parental Leave Policy

Pillich’s new parental leave policy includes recovery time for new mothers, giving 12 weeks of paid time. Other employee parents get 8 weeks. This attracts and helps retain a talented workforce, particularly among attorneys who have other high-paying options.

Added Expertise to Stadium Lease Negotiation Team

Pillich is dedicated to a fair renegotiation of the Paycor Stadium lease. She hired David Abrams, a national expert of stadium deals, as part of the negotiation team.

Creating a Conviction Integrity Unit

Pillich is creating a Conviction Integrity Unit to identify, review, and correct wrongful convictions or miscarriages of justice. This enhances public trust by promoting transparency and accountability.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment on theft from the elderly

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:29:42 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment on theft from the elderly

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of David Grubbs on charges that allege he took advantage of a 97-year-old woman who was playing slots at the Hard Rock Casino.

David Grubbs, 64, address unknown, was indicted on charges of theft from an elderly person and aggravated possession of drugs.

The indictment alleges on April 1, 2025 Mr. Grubbs was playing the slot machines at Hard Rock Casino when he asked to use the cell phone of the woman playing slots next to him. She said yes. Mr. Grubbs took the cell phone and left the casino.

Mr. Grubbs left his player’s card in the slot machine he was using. Hamilton County

Sheriff’s Office investigators used information from the card and cameras in the casino to identify Mr. Grubbs. Reading Police arrested Mr. Grubbs two days later, at which time he was found with suspected drugs.

“ I do not tolerate taking advantage of anyone, let alone a 97-year-old woman,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “ Prosecuting crimes against the elderly is a priority of this office.”

Please direct questions to Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Director of Communications Sharon Coolidge.

Cell: 513-317-5136

Email: Sharon.coolidge@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of drug dealer in death of buyer

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:02:37 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of drug dealer in death of buyer

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced an indictment against Adam Rich, a man who sold fentanyl and methamphetamines to a 39-year-old Green Township man, killing him.

Rich, 42, of 9878 Wiscasset Way, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45251, was charged with involuntary manslaughter, corrupting another with drugs, trafficking in a fentanyl related compound and aggravated trafficking in drugs.

The Hamilton County Heroin Task Force initiated this case.

The indictment alleges on June 5, 2022, Mr. Rich sold fentanyl and methamphetamines to the victim. Evidence shows Mr. Rich communicated with the victim in the weeks prior to his death regarding the sale of drugs. Additionally, texts show Mr. Rich sold drugs to the victim within four hours of his death.

“These cases are tragic, but every death matters,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich . “We urge citizens to remember even a little bit of fentanyl can kill.”

For questions, please call Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Director of Communications Sharon Coolidge.

Cell: 513-317-5136

Email: Sharon.coolidge@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces new Prosecutor’s Office Parental Leave Policy

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:36:41 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces new Prosecutor’s Office Parental Leave Policy

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich has announced a new parental leave policy for employees. The move comes amidst a larger modernization of the office.

“ I was shocked when I arrived to find the Prosecutor’s Office offered just four weeks of leave for new parents,” Pillich said. “Study after study has shown that’s not enough for new parents.”

The previous policy allowed for parental leave up to four weeks, the lowest among county executive offices. If both parents worked at the office, they would need to divide up the four-week leave, rather than each take four weeks. Additionally, the old policy denied leave for a second child born less than 12 months after the first, and for any family that opted to have more than two children while employed at the Prosecutor’s office.

Pillich put an end to those outdated policies. Going forward the office will provide employees with up to 12 weeks of leave for the addition of a new child to an employee through birth or adoption. Of the 12 weeks, eight weeks is paid by the county, without the employee using sick or vacation time. An employee birth mother immediately after the birth may elect to take four weeks of paid leave for physical recovery, after which she may take the eight weeks offered. That gives birth mothers a full 12 weeks of paid leave.

The office is also working to identify an area that would be safe pumping space for mothers that is not a bathroom. Pillich recognizes the dignity of mothers and the need for privacy. This room would be available to staff members and grand jurors, who work out of the prosecutor’s office.

This is not the first time Pillich has worked to help new parents. Pillich was pregnant while in law school at the University of Cincinnati and successfully worked with the school to add a private pumping room. As a state representative Pillich worked to add provisions to state law that required businesses to have pumping rooms, but the law was not enacted.

“This new policy enhances our ability to attract and retain a highly competent workforce particularly among attorneys who have other high paying options,” Pillich said.

Pillich is the first elected female prosecutor in Hamilton County history and the mother of two grown children.

Please direct questions to Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Communications Director Sharon Coolidge.

Cell: 513: 513-317-5136

Email: Sharon.coolidge@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment related to dog attack on Police Officer

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 21:26:10 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment related to dog attack on Police Officer

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of Darryl Stowers, who is accused of allowing his dog to attack a Cincinnati Police Officer.

Darryl Stowers, 26, of 100 Craft Street, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45232, was indicted on a charge of felonious assault stemming from the dog attack and he was indicted on two additional misdemeanor charges of assault and resisting arrest related to accusations that he harmed a woman, which is why police sought to question him. (Case number B2501519 and case number B2501673)

On March 29, 2025 just before 1 a.m. Cincinnati Police Officers were dispatched to 100 Craft Street for shots fired. A female at the address advised officers Stowers hit her with a gun. Officers saw visible injuries to the woman’s ear.

When two officers attempted to detain Stowers, he ran on foot into the house, where there were three dogs. The dogs attacked the officers. Officer William Goetz tackled Stowers and Goetz was bit on the calf by one of the dogs. Goetz tried to mace the dog, but it did not work, prompting Goetz to kick the dog to an attempt to protect himself.

“The officers responded to a woman who needed help,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. “We’re thankful that the officer was not more seriously hurt. It is unacceptable this officer was attacked while trying to protect citizens. ”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces result of Officer involved shooting review

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 17:32:03 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces result of Officer involved shooting review

Today Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of Kristin Pollitt, 22, address unknown, on charges related to a crash that left property at the Pleasant Ridge Fire Station on Montgomery Road damaged.

Pollitt was indicted on charges of failure to comply with a police officer, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and driving under suspension. The chase began during the early morning hours of April 1, when Norwood Police attempted to stop her on suspicion of driving under the influence. The chase ended when Pollitt crashed into the retaining wall outside Cincinnati Fire Station #8.

Two people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

The failure to comply charge was filed as a Felony 3 (F3) , which carries a penalty of 9 months to three years in prison.

Please direct questions to Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Director of Communications Sharon Coolidge :

W. 513-946-3278

C. 513-317-5136

Email: Sharon.Coolidge@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of woman who crashed into Pleasant Ridge Fire Station property

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:41:43 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of woman who crashed into Pleasant Ridge Fire Station property

Two people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

The failure to comply charge was filed as a Felony 3 (F3) , which carries a penalty of 9 months to three years in prison.

Please direct questions to Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Director of Communications Sharon Coolidge :

W. 513-946-3278

C. 513-317-5136

Email: Sharon.Coolidge@hcpros.org

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment following dangerous confrontation with CPD Officers

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 21:08:13 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment following dangerous confrontation with CPD Officers

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced that Patrick Lyons has been indicted on multiple felony charges following a dangerous confrontation with Cincinnati Police Department officers in the Walnut Hills neighborhood.

Lyons has been charged with:

• Felonious Assault (F1) – 3 counts

The charges stem from an incident on March 2, 2025, when Lyons, armed with a knife, charged at the officers, sprinting towards them. Despite their attempts to de-escalate, officers were forced to respond with force to protect themselves. Two shots were fired, one of which struck Lyons.

The case was investigated by the Cincinnati Police Department’s Homicide Unit. Prosecutor Pillich praised their professionalism:

“The courage and composure demonstrated by the Cincinnati Police officers in the face of such a dangerous encounter is commendable. Their quick action protected not just themselves but the broader community.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich Announces Indictment on felony charges in violent attack on Law Enforcement Officers

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:52:46 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich Announces Indictment on felony charges in violent attack on Law Enforcement Officers

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced that Robert Eldred has been indicted on multiple felony charges following a violent attack on law enforcement officers in Columbia Township.

Eldred has been charged with:

• Felonious Assault on an Officer (F1) – 5 counts

The charges stem from an incident on February 28, 2025, when officers from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a man chasing individuals with a baseball bat in Columbia Township. When officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, Eldred threw the bat at them before retrieving an axe from his house. He then charged the officers with the axe and threw it at them. Despite being subdued, Eldred continued to resist until emergency medical personnel arrived.

Prosecutor Connie Pillich commented:

“These deputies put their lives on the line to keep our community safe, and any act of violence against them is an attack on public safety. My office will prosecute this case aggressively to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law.”

The case was investigated by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. Prosecutor Pillich commended their actions, stating:

“The swift response and professionalism of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s deputies in this dangerous situation reflect their dedication to protecting our community. They repeatedly employed de-escalation techniques that probably saved Mr. Eldred’s life. We appreciate their service and will work to ensure justice is served in this case.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in connection with tragic death of three-year-old

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:58:51 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment in connection with tragic death of three-year-old

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced Warren Houston (06/13/1979) has been indicted in connection with the tragic death of his three-year-old daughter, who was fatally mauled by multiple dogs in his Roselawn home.

The defendant has been charged with:

Involuntary Manslaughter (F1)
Endangering Children (F3)
Reckless Endangerment (F3)

Prosecutor Connie Pillich issued the following statement:

"This is a heartbreaking and devastating case. No family should have to suffer such an unimaginable loss. While nothing can undo this tragedy, we are committed to ensuring accountability and justice."

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces charges filed in Organized Crime Ring

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 20:19:12 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces charges filed in Organized Crime Ring

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced charges have been filed in connection with an organized crime ring responsible for a series of burglaries across multiple states.

The defendants have been charged with:

• Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity (F1) 11 years

• Burglary (F2) 8 years

Prosecutor Connie Pillich issued the following statement:

“This case is a testament to the strength of law enforcement collaboration at every level. The dedication of local, state, and federal agencies made these charges possible, and I want to thank every officer, investigator, and prosecutor who worked tirelessly on this case. Let this be clear: If you commit a crime in Hamilton County, we will prosecute you. Organized crime has no place in our communities, and we will hold those responsible accountable.”

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost also praised the work of the task force:

“Our task forces are the kryptonite that brings organized crime to its knees,” Yost said. “Task-force agents under our Organized Crime Investigations Commission are among the best in their field, and with the help of our partners, they excel at getting justice for Ohioans.”

This case was investigated by the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission Task Force, led by the Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Indian Hill Police Department, and the Amberley Village Police Department, with support from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of Cameron Hardy stemming from an assault at Mount St. Joseph University

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:53:07 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of cameron hardy stemming from an assault at mount st. joseph university

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced that Cameron Hardy (06/23/2005) has been indicted on a charge stemming from an assault at Mount St. Joseph University that resulted in the victim losing partial vision.

Hardy has been charged with:

● Felonious Assault (F2)

The charges stem from an incident on 1/18/2025, when Hardy allegedly punched the victim during an altercation on the university campus. The unprovoked attack caused significant injuries, including permanent damage to the victim's vision.

Prosecutor Connie Pillich commented:

"This senseless act of violence has left a young person with life-altering injuries. Violence of any kind has no place in our community, especially on our college campuses, where students deserve to feel safe as they pursue their education. My office will work tirelessly to ensure justice is served for the victim."

The victim, whose identity is being withheld for privacy, is receiving ongoing medical treatment.

The case was investigated by the Mount St. Joseph University Police Department and the Delhi Township Police Department. Prosecutor Pillich praised their efforts, stating, " Their diligence in investigating this incident and bringing the suspect to justice demonstrates the strong partnership between law enforcement and the prosecutor's office in ensuring public safety."

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of Colerain’s Joseph Chevrolet Shooter

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:40:40 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announces Indictment of Colerain’s Joseph Chevrolet Shooter

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced the indictment of Rashid Dewees (DOB 12/02/2003) for the January 30th shooting incident at Joseph Chevrolet on Colerain Avenue.

Dewees has been indicted with:

Felonious Assault (F2)
Felonious Assault (F2)
Inducing Panic (F5)
Aggravated Menacing (M1)
Inducing Panic (M1)

On January 30, 2025, Colerain Township Police responded to reports of an active shooter at Joseph Chevrolet. Upon arrival, officers observed people fleeing the building and heard additional gunfire. Officers entered the building, located Dewees inside the showroom, and took him into custody without further incident. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich commented:

"Gun violence—whether in workplaces, homes, or public spaces—creates chaos and fear in our community. While it is fortunate that no one was physically harmed in this case, the defendant’s actions endangered lives. My office will always work to ensure accountability and protect our community."

The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s office extends gratitude to the Colerain Police Department and to the more than 50 witnesses and employees of Joseph Chevrolet who cooperated with officers and detectives during this process.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against four defendants in relation to Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:35:31 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against four defendants in relation to Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Zachary Stumpf, Terry Stiles, Kaitlen Hall, and James Hamilton for conduct related to the November 1, 2024 fire that caused significant damage to the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge.

Zachary Stumpf and Terry Stiles each face three counts of Aggravated Arson (Felony 1) and one count of Arson (Felony 4). If convicted of all charges, they each face a maximum possible prison term of 38 and a half years. Kaitlen Hall and James Hamilton each face two counts of Obstructing Justice (Felony 3). If convicted of all charges, they each face a maximum possible prison term of six years.

In the early-morning hours of November 1, 2024 defendants Stumpf, Stiles, and Hall drove to the playground underneath the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge, which carries Interstate 471 and connects the states of Ohio and Kentucky. While at the playground, defendants Stumpf and Stiles started a fire that caused severe structural damage to the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge. This damage caused the bridge to be shut down to all traffic and placed motorists on the bridge at the time of the fire in extreme danger of death or other serious harm. Repairs to the bridge are expected to cost several million dollars.

During the course of the investigation that followed the fire, defendant Kaitlen Hall made false statements to investigators concerning her whereabouts and the whereabouts of defendants Stumpf and Stiles on the night of the fire. On December 10, when police were dispatched to arrest Stumpf and Stiles, defendant James Hamilton made additional false statements to police in an attempt to conceal their whereabouts.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “The conduct of Zachary Stumpf and Terry Stiles put the lives of innocent people in jeopardy, cost the taxpayers of Ohio millions of dollars, and inconvenienced thousands of commuters and travelers who rely on the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge to get to and from the city of Cincinnati. And, instead of doing the right thing and coming forward, they enlisted other people to lie for them in an attempt to evade punishment. My sincere hope is that they each spend the maximum amount of time possible behind bars.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against St. Xavier High School employee for Improper Sexual Relationship with a student

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 20:19:35 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against St. Xavier High School employee for improper sexual relationship with a student

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Emily Nutley (DOB: 03/06/1982) for engaging in an unlawful sexual relationship with a minor child who was a student at St. Xavier High School where the defendant was employed.

Emily Nutley was indicted for six (6) counts of Sexual Battery, a felony of the third degree. If convicted of all charges she faces the possibility of up to fifteen (15) years in prison and a duty to register as a sexually oriented offender.

In the fall semester of 2023, Nutley was employed as a teacher / instructor at St. Xavier High School, a parochial school in Springfield Township. Her role at the school was as supervisor of a program to assist students struggling with academics. The victim (a male student, age 17 at the time of the offense) had been assigned to the program as part of the schools “multi-tiered system of support” and was working with Nutley on academic matters. It was during this time that Nutley began to have additional contact with the victim outside of school hours. This contact, via text message, included nude photographs of Nutley and sexually explicit messages.

In mid-November of 2023, Nutley began a physical relationship with the student that included multiple encounters. Nutley is alleged to have performed oral sex on the male victim at least one time while on the campus of St. Xavier High School and one additional time while off campus. Nutley is also alleged to have engaged in sexual intercourse with the victim after hours while in her office at the school. When the victim attempted to stop the encounters, Nutley continued to contact the victim via text messages.

The inappropriate conduct was brought to light after an internal investigation by St. Xavier High School administrators. Springfield Township Police were then contacted to conduct a criminal investigation that resulted in charges.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This is absolutely unacceptable and reprehensible conduct from an adult towards a minor child. This child was in need of help and guidance but instead found an adult looking to act out her perverted sexual desires.

I want to thank the Springfield Township Police and St. Xavier High School for their thorough investigation in this matter. Let me be very clear: this is child sexual abuse. This child was the victim of an adult predator who should never again have a role that puts her in contact with children. She used this child for her own sexual gratification while taking advantage of the position she held. My office will prosecute this matter fully and thoroughly to ensure that justice is served.”

Elder Justice Unit Training

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:42:40 GMT

On October 16th, the Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney's office hosted its 36th Elder Justice Unit training, this time at Firehouse Grill in Blue Ash. Here's a deeper look at the meaning and impact of this innovative community outreach program.

EJU Event 10-8-24

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:47:28 GMT

On October 8, 2024, attorneys from the Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney's office hosted an Elder Justice Unit training at the Evendale Recreation Center. This was the thirty-five training the team has hosted since August 2023. The event served about thirty attendees and featured a training on how to stay safe from scams and fraud.

EJU Event 10-7-24

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 18:32:33 GMT

On October 7, 2024, Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Powers served as the keynote speaker for a luncheon gathering of retired former Proctor and Gamble employees. Staffers from her office presented an Elder Justice Unit training to the group. The event took place at Seasons Retirement Community. Powers also served as a celebrity guest at the luncheon ahead of the presentation.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Michael Talley for Aggravated Murder and other related charges

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:18:35 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Michael Talley for aggravated murder and other related charges

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Michael Talley (DOB: 02/20/1975) for the August 29th murder of a fellow patron at the Cruise Inn in Forest Park.

Johnson was indicted for one (1) count of Aggravated Murder (Special Felony) with firearm specifications, two (2) counts of Murder (Special Felony) with firearm specifications, one (1) count of Felonious Assault (Felony 2) with firearm specification, and two (2) counts of Having Weapons While Under Disability (Felony 3). If convicted on all charges, Talley faces the possibility of lifetime imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

On August 29th, 2024 at approximately 10:05 PM Forest Park Police were dispatched for reports of a person shot at the Cruise Inn, located at 695 Northland Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim lying on the floor with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to University Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Investigators from Forest Park Police were able to obtain surveillance video from the Cruise Inn which captured the shooting. In the footage, Talley is seen concealing a firearm under his shirt and sitting at a table near the front of the establishment. Talley waits for several minutes until the victim approaches and is then seen calling the victim over to him. After a brief conversation, Talley produces the firearm and fires five shots at the victim. Following the shooting, Talley exits the bar and leaves the scene in his motor vehicle.

Police were able to identify the vehicle in question and determine that it was registered to Talley. Further investigation confirmed Talley to be the person seen on the surveillance video firing the shots that killed the victim. Talley is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple previous convictions, including a prior Aggravated Robbery. At the time of the offense, Talley was on probation for a February 2024 conviction for Having Weapons While Under Disability.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I want to commend the Forest Park Police Department on their quick and thorough investigation in this matter.

This was a cold-blooded, premeditated killing in a public space. This kind of brazen violence cannot and will not be tolerated in our community.

I am especially troubled by the fact that this defendant was out on probation for carrying a firearm illegally when this killing occurred. He has been previously convicted of this same offense multiple times and, despite that, was still allowed back out onto our streets in February. A person with a history of violence who continues to illegally carry firearms should not be given a sentence of community control. Ever.

This is why I will continue to speak up and speak out against soft and lenient sentences for repeat, violent offenders. We are all less safe when people who refuse to follow the law do not receive appropriate consequences for their actions.”

Elder Justice Unit at Church of the Saviour

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:40:05 GMT

On September 17th, 2024, attorneys and staffers from the Elder Justice Unit spoke at a picnic with members of the Church of the Saviour. About 40 people attended the dinner, which included tips and training to protect people from scams.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Eric Zachary Johnson for Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving A Minor

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 15:47:46 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Eric Zachary Johnson for Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving A Minor

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Eric Zachary Johnson (DOB: 09/23/1994) for thirty (30) counts of Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving a Minor. If convicted of all charges, he faces a maximum of 77 years and 6 months in prison.

Johnson was indicted for twenty-five (25) counts of Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving a Minor at the felony of the fourth degree level and five (5) counts of Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving a Minor at the felony of the second degree level.

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children that indicated an internet account associated with Eric Zachary Johnson was potentially involved in the online storage of child pornography and child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Deputies with the Regional Electronic and Computer Investigations (RECI) section of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office drafted a search warrant for Johnson’s residence based on this information. Deputies executed the warrant on August 27 ^th , 2024 and recovered electronic devices including Johnson’s cell phone, multiple computers, and multiple hard drives.

An analysis of the defendant’s phone revealed over 100 images categorized as CSAM, forty-two

(42) images categorized as child exploitative material, and thirty-nine (39) additional files of interest including screenshots of children’s Instagram pages. Further investigation also discovered nearly one hundred videos of women and children playing in public, believed to be recorded in parks and neighborhoods in the Anderson Township area. An analysis of the multiple hard drives seized is ongoing, and it is estimated that there are over one million images and videos to categorize.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I want to thank the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office for their excellent work in this matter. Tracking down criminals who operate in the shadows of the Internet is not easy work, and we are lucky to have dedicated professionals working to keep us safe online.

I am disturbed by the facts in this case and believe the public needs to be made aware of them. This defendant was not only collecting gigabytes of child pornography, he was also out in public covertly recording children at play. This is sickening and depraved, and it causes me to have grave concern that he might have been doing more than collecting files off the internet.

If anyone, especially those in the Anderson Township area, suspects their child has had contact with Eric Zachary Johnson, please contact the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office or your local police department.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Kenneth Mortimer for stabbing his father and mother, causing his mother’s death

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:15:09 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Kenneth Mortimer for stabbing his father and mother, causing his mother’s death

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Kenneth

Mortimer (DOB: 03/29/1984) for the August 9th, 2024 stabbing attack that killed his 75-year-old

mother (Barbara Mortimer) and severely injured his 75-year-old father (Thomas Mortimer)

Kenneth Mortimer was indicted for two (2) counts of Aggravated Murder (Special Felony), two

(2) counts of Murder (Special Felony), two (2) counts of Kidnapping (Felony 1), four (4) counts

of Felonious Assault (Felony 2), and one (1) count of Attempted Murder (Felony 1). If convicted

on all charges, he faces the possibility of lifetime imprisonment with no possibility of parole.

On August 9th, 2024 at around 3:57 PM Green Township police officers were dispatched to the

3000 block of Palmhill Lane for a report of a possible stabbing in progress. When police arrived

on scene, they observed a male victim standing and covered in blood and a female victim, also

covered in blood but unresponsive on the floor. Police were advised that the attacker was the son

of the victims and that he had fled in automobile. An all-county broadcast was placed with the

make, model and registration of the vehicle. Cincinnati Police located the defendant, Kenneth

Mortimer, and his vehicle near the Mt. Airy Forest. Mortimer’s clothing, as well as the inside of

his vehicle, were covered in blood. He was placed into custody at that time.

Subsequent investigation revealed that Kenneth Mortimer had been involved in a verbal altercation

with his parents at the house they shared in the afternoon of August 9th, 2024. When the victims

suggested that Kenneth they were planning to call the police or the mental health crisis line due to

his erratic behavior, Kenneth went to the kitchen to retrieve the biggest knife he could find. He

then returned to the living room attack both victims. After stabbing his father multiple times,

Kenneth Mortimer then chased his mother outside and stabbed her repeatedly. He dragged her

body back into the house before fleeing in his automobile. As a result of the stabbings, Thomas

Mortimer was hospitalized with multiple stab wounds. Barabara Mortimer was pronounced dead

a short time later.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It is absolutely horrifying to think of

the depravity required to brutally attack both of your parents, killing one and nearly killing the

other. Barbara and Thomas Mortimer were just trying to get their son the help he obviously needed,

and he responded with unimaginable violence. My heart breaks for the rest of the Mortimer family

having to deal with this tragedy.

I want to commend the Green Township Police Department and Paramedics who responded to the

scene so quickly. Their outstanding work prevented two lives from being lost on this day. Were it

not for recent changes to Ohio law, this would have been a case where the death penalty was an

option. We will settle instead for ensuring that Kenneth Mortimer spends the rest of his life behind

bars.”

Elder Justice Unit hosts training at Miami Township Senior Center

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:58:55 GMT

On Tuesday, August 13th, 2024, the team from the Elder Justice Unit hosted a training at the Miami Township Senior Center in Cleves. The event was one of over thirty hosted by the Prosecuting Attorney's office since August 2023. The presentation provided information on how to protect people from scams. Attendees also found out more about the office helpline, 513-946-SCAM.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces appointment of Special Prosecutor to inquire into June 22nd incident at Montgomery Inn Boathouse

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 14:45:21 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces appointment of Special Prosecutor to inquire into June 22 ^nd incident at Montgomery Inn Boathouse

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the appointment of a special prosecutor to inquire into allegations of potential criminal activity occurring at the Montgomery Inn Boathouse on June 22 ^nd of 2024.

Upon the motion of the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office, Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge Patrick Dinkelacker ordered the appointment of Clermont County Prosecutor Mark J. Tekulve, and any of his assistants or designees, as a special prosecutor. Mark Tekulve has agreed to investigate and prosecute, if necessary, all criminal matters arising from the June 22 ^nd incident.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented: "I want to thank Mark Tekulve for accepting the appointment as special prosecutor in this matter. Mark is an accomplished attorney and outstanding prosecutor with decades of experience. I am certain that he and his staff will diligently inquire into this matter and ensure all appropriate actions are taken.

It is important that the public have confidence in the equal application of the law. No duty is more important for a Prosecutor. With this appointment, the public can be assured that justice in this matter will be administrated fairly and impartially."

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers comments on the decision of the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals Today in Enoch, et al v. Hamilton Cnty. Sheriff's Office, et al.

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 12:30:01 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers comments on the decision of the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals Today in Enoch, et al v. Hamilton Cnty. Sheriff's Office, et al.

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers offered comments following the decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in the case of Enoch, et al v. Hamilton Cnty. Sheriff's Office, et al.

This matter originated out of the 2014 criminal proceedings against former Hamilton County Juvenile Court Judge Tracie Hunter. Following those proceedings, Corbin (Hunter's former bailiff) and Enoch (a supporter of Hunter) filed suit against the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and individual deputies for allegedly violating their 1st Amendment rights to record video and take photos in the hallways of the courthouse. This was a violation of established local rules. Following trial, plaintiffs were awarded $35,000 in damages and $546,621.29 in attorney's fees.

In a decision filed today, the Sixth Circuit reversed the decision of the district court that had allowed the plaintiffs to proceed to trial as improperly granted and vacated the court's order awarding attorney's fees and costs to the plaintiffs' attorney.

Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented: "Today's ruling ends nearly eight years of litigation, validating our opinion that this has been a meritless claim from the beginning.

I want to offer special commendation to the staff from my office's civil division who have handled this case and provided exemplary legal work on behalf of the Sheriff's Office: Jerry Kunkel, James Sayre, Joseph Prem, and Pamela Sears. Because of their efforts, the taxpayers of Hamilton County have been saved from being forced to pay nearly $600,000 in improperly awarded fees and damages. They deserve our gratitude for working tirelessly to get the job done."

Naturalization Ceremony

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:10:35 GMT

Nee Fong Chin, Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Hamilton County, spoke on June 10, 2024 in Judge Sandra Beckwith’s courtroom for the Naturalization Ceremony at the new UC College of Law. Beckwith presided over her courtroom for the very first time. Nee Fong Chin shared her family’s history of coming to the United States and what’s been like for her as a 1 ^st generation American born Chinese. When Nee Fong Chin graduated with her Juris Doctorate, she worked as a Clerk for a judge and then began her work at the Hamilton County Prosecutors Office, making her the first Chinese woman in Cincinnati to practice law. She has now been with the office for 30+ years and is the Environmental Division Chief/Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney.

Captain Phil H. Bucklew Veteran and Military Family Center

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:07:39 GMT

On June 6, 2024, Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Powers was honored to attend the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for the Captain Phil H. Bucklew Veteran and Military Family Center at Xavier University. Bucklew was a 1936 Xavier University graduate and is considered the father of the modern US Navy SEALS. He also participated in the D-Day landing at Normandy, France. Powers was proud to show her support of past, present, and future veterans in Hamilton County.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Joseph Van Niman for Colerain Kroger shooting

Fri, 31 May 2024 18:54:49 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Joseph Van Niman for Colerain Kroger shooting

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Joseph Van Niman (DOB: 11/11/1981) for the May 29th, shooting at the Kroger Supermarket located at 3636 Springdale Road in Colerain Township.

Van Niman was indicted for three (3) counts of Attempted Murder (Felony 1) with firearm specifications, five (5) counts of Felonious

Assault (Felony 2) with firearm specifications, one (1) count of Carrying Concealed Weapons (Felony 4), one (1) count of Having Weapons While Under Disability (Felony 3), one (1) count of Possession of Criminal Tools (Felony 5) with firearm specifications, and one (1) count of Inducing Panic (Felony 4) with firearm specifications. If convicted, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 76 to 81.5 years in prison.

On May 29th, Colerain Township Police Officers were conducting a drug investigation in the area of Colerain Avenue and Springdale Road. During this investigation, officers observed Joseph Van Niman conduct what they believed to be a narcotics transaction. Colerain Officers followed Van Niman as he walked across the street and into the parking lot of the Kroger Store located at 3636 Springdale Road. When officers gave Van Niman verbal commands to stop, Van Niman turned towards officers with a firearm in hand and took a shooting stance.

Officers produced weapons, and Van Niman ran into the Kroger Store, taking cover near the entrance with his firearm still drawn. Van Niman and Police exchanged gunfire from this position, with Van Niman stepping out multiple times while brandishing his firearm at officers. Additional officers approached from an alternate entrance, and Van Niman attempted to move deeper into the store. Before he could accomplish this, Van Niman was struck by one of the officer’s shots and fell to the ground. Officers placed Van Niman in custody and immediately began to provide life-saving measures. Officers also rendered medical assistance to a bystander who was struck by shrapnel during the exchange of gunfire. Both individuals were transported to the hospital for medical care.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “My office has a responsibility to review all use of force cases involving police, so I will limit my statements until that review is completed. To everyone who was present at the store that day, my heart breaks for you. No one should fear for their safety going out to buy groceries.

I want it known that we intend to prosecute this defendant to the fullest extent possible for his actions. This defendant tried to take an officer’s life; we’re going to make sure his life ends in a prison cell.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers calls on the community to help in opposing parole for cop killers Wayne Reed and Russell Bell

Tue, 21 May 2024 12:46:08 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers calls on the community to help in opposing parole for cop killers Wayne Reed and Russell Bell

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers called on the community to contact the Ohio Parole Board to oppose the release of inmates Wayne Reed and Russell Bell.

In 1979, Russell Bell and Wayne Reed were convicted on charges of Attempted Murder and Aggravated Murder for the killing of Cincinnati Police Officer Charles Burdsall and the shooting of 19-year-old David Mallon.

On the night of July 14, 1978, Reed and Bell planned to rob a convenience store at the corner of Dixmyth and McMicken Avenue. They were observed by an off-duty Cincinnati Police Officer casing the business in preparation for their robbery. The off-duty police officer alerted Cincinnati Police District 5, which placed an all-call broadcast for a possible armed robbery. Officer Burdsall, who was patrolling nearby, responded to the scene. On this evening, Officer Burdsall was accompanied by David Mallon, who was doing a citizen ride-along while contemplating a career in law enforcement.

Realizing they had been made, Bell and Reed fled the scene in their car. Officer Burdsall pursued, searching for the suspect vehicle. A short time later, at approximately 12:10 AM, Officer Burdsall initiated a traffic stop of the suspects in the 2900 block of West McMicken Avenue. As Officer Burdsall approached the suspects, Wayne Reed turned suddenly and produced a firearm, shooting Officer Burdsall in the face. Reed then approached Officer Burdsall and fired two additional shots into his back as he lay on the ground. Reed then turned his gun on David Mallon, who had exited the vehicle to assist Officer Burdsall. Reed fired additional shots that struck Mallon in the back. Reed and Bell then fled in their car, leaving both victims behind.

Officer Charles Burdsall was pronounced dead later that morning. He left behind a wife and three young children.

Bell and Reed were both tried and convicted of Aggravated Murder and Attempted Murder. Following trial, they were both sentenced to death. However, a later ruling by the Ohio Supreme Court invalidated Ohio’s death penalty statute and the sentences for both Bell and Reed were reduced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 15 years. At the time of the ruling, Ohio did not have the option to sentence criminal defendants to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Defendants Bell and Reed are currently eligible for parole with a next hearing date of May 30, 2024.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “All these years later, it is still chilling to read the facts of this case. These two men murdered Officer Charles Burdsall in cold blood, shooting him execution style and leaving him to die on the pavement as they drove off. The fact that they escaped execution for their crimes is shocking.

Officer Burdsall was a hero. He served his country bravely in the Vietnam War for multiple tours, earning a Purple Heart for being wounded in combat. When he returned home, he continued to serve the public as a member of the Cincinnati Police Department. His story is the greatest fear of all police officers and their family members; that they will not return home after a night of protecting our community. That fear is still all too real, as we have seen just this month with Officer Jacob Derbin being killed while responding to a domestic violence call in Euclid, Ohio.

We have a responsibility, as a community, to ensure that Russell Bell and Wayne Reed remain in prison for the rest of their lives. We owe that to the memory of Officer Burdsall. I am asking everyone to join me in opposing parole for both of these killers by going to our website: https://www.hcpros.org/pending-hearings , and submitting a letter to the Ohio Parole Board.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Edward Murray for Murder of a 21-month-old child

Mon, 20 May 2024 14:19:03 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against Edward Murray for Murder of a 21-month-old child

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Edward Murray (DOB: 06/08/2000) for the May 1, 2024 killing of child K.K., who was 21 months old at the time of his death.

Murray was indicted for two (2) counts of Murder (Special Felony), one (1) count of Felonious Assault (F2), and one (1) count of Child Endangering (F3). If convicted, he faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

In the morning hours of May 2nd, 2024 paramedics were dispatched to the residence of Aminata Keita for a report of a non-responsive child. When first responders arrived, they found victim K.K. unresponsive and not breathing. K.K. was transported to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital ICU. Three days later, on May 5th, 2024, K.K. was pronounced dead. Further examination of K.K. following his death revealed the following injuries:

Cardiac arrest with severe diffuse hypoxic-ischemic injury
Complex right parietal and occipital bone fractures
Rib fracture, subdural hemorrhage
Grade 5 liver lacerations with hemoperitoneum
Diffuse retinal hemorrhages; and
Brain swelling due to inner-cranial hemorrhaging

Child abuse expert physicians at Cincinnati Children’s determined these injuries could only have occurred from violent impacts against objects or from delivered blows. After autopsy, the death was ruled a homicide.

Investigation by Cincinnati Police revealed that Aminata Keita (mother of K.K.) had been dating defendant Edward Murray for approximately three months. On the evening of K.K.’s death, Murray had been alone with K.K. outside the residence playing. After that, Murray brought K.K. inside and directly to bed, skipping dinner claiming the child was tired. Murray was alone with

K.K. in K.K.’s bedroom for several minutes before returning to smoke marijuana with Keita. Neither individual checked on K.K. for the remainder of the night. The next morning, Murray was again alone with K.K. when it was discovered K.K. was not breathing and unresponsive. Murray was unable to provide any alternate explanation for how K.K. could have been injured so severely.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This case is both heartbreaking and sickening. I cannot imagine the amount of evil required to hurt an innocent child so severely. It is genuinely disturbing to think someone capable of doing this might walk among us.

I want to thank both the Cincinnati Police Department and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for their outstanding work investigating this matter; these cases are not easy. We are going to make sure that this killer goes behind bars for as long as possible.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against parent of two-year-old who shot self with gun

Mon, 13 May 2024 18:51:51 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges against parent of two-year-old who shot self with gun

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Jana Ryce (DOB 05/23/00) for the April 23, 2024 incident that resulted in a self-inflicted gunshot wound of a two year old child.

Ryce was indicted for one (1) count of Endangering Children (F3) with firearm specifications. If convicted, she faces a maximum possible sentence of six (6) years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

On April 23, 2024 Jana Ryce was at home with her two year old son. At this time, Ryce had possession of a firearm that had been given to her by her boyfriend to hide (this firearm had previously been reported stolen out of North College Hill.) Ryce had hidden the firearm in an unsecured location and laid down to take a nap. While she was sleeping, the child located the firearm and managed to discharge the gun at himself, resulting in serious injury.

Ryce took the child to the hospital, where he was treated. The child required multiple screws to be placed in his leg. Cincinnati Police officers responded to the residence and took possession of the gun.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It shocks me that anyone would be so irresponsible with a firearm around young children.

This was an entirely preventable incident that could have been so much worse. It is fortunate that this child is alive today.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces no charges to be filed against adult in the Mariemont School shooting plan

Fri, 03 May 2024 12:07:59 GMT

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces no charges to be filed against adult in the Mariemont School shooting plan

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced that no charges will be filed against the adult who communicated with Juvenile A.B. as he planned to carry out a school shooting at Mariemont High School.

On February 8 ^th , Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced that the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office was seeking to try Juvenile A.B. as an adult for planning to murder multiple individuals at Mariemont High School. During the course of that investigation, it was determined that A.B. was conversing with an unknown individual about participating in the shooting. Investigation identified this unknown individual as a 36-year-old male who was, at all times during his interactions with A.B., residing in a Colorado group home. This individual has been a ward of the state since turning 18 due to cognitive issues and met A.B. while playing video games online.

As part of the investigation into this potential suspect, the individual’s phone and electronic devices were seized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and sent to Mariemont Police for review. Additionally, the Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Juvenile Division as well as a Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office investigator (a former Cincinnati Police homicide detective with decades of experience) travelled to Colorado to conduct an in-person interview with this individual. Following a review of the evidence and interview, a determination was made that this individual had no means or ability to participate in Juvenile A.B.’s plan.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers stated: “The job of the Prosecutor is to seek justice, and in this case, it has become clear that justice would not be served by criminal charges against this individual. I want to thank the FBI, local authorities in Colorado and the Mariemont Police for their diligent work in this matter.

Seton High School Safety Summit

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 13:24:15 GMT

On March 13, 2024, Melissa Powers served as keynote speaker at an innovative School Safety Summit hosted at Seton High School. This event served as a training for school professionals across Ohio and emphasized the need for bold solutions with regard to keeping students safe in an educational environment. Click here to read Melissa's keynote speech.

FIGHTING FOR VICTIMS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 14:23:10 GMT

During my career as a prosecutor, a Judge, and a defense attorney, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of supporting victims throughout the criminal process. For far too long, victims have been the forgotten voice in a justice system that endlessly accommodates the criminal. My office will be an advocate for victims and demand that their rights be protected. We owe nothing less to those who have suffered through no fault of their own.

PROTECT OUR SENIORS AND CHILDREN

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 14:22:32 GMT

Under my leadership, we are fighting harder than ever to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly our seniors and children. I launched Hamilton County’s first Elder Justice Unit to help prevent abuse and scamming of our senior citizens. We also partner with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in the investigation of abused children. Our message is clear: if you take advantage of the vulnerable, you will face the full force of the law.

HOLD VIOLENT CRIMINALS ACCOUNTABLE

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 20:34:43 GMT

Violent crime has no place in our society. Far too many activists and agenda-driven politicians have sought to undermine our way of life by seeking to excuse violent crime, and I will not stand for it. My office will have zero tolerance for repeat offenders and violent criminals. For other, less serious offenses we will work collaboratively to ensure those who can be rehabilitated are offered the opportunity to become productive members of society.

KEEP OUR NEIGHBORHOODS SAFE

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 20:34:04 GMT

Our neighborhoods are the lifeblood of our community, and every neighborhood matters. No person should have to live in fear when walking home from school or work. We all deserve neighborhoods and communities that are safe places to live, work and raise our families. Hamilton County is my home, and I will work every day to keep it a safe place.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces charges and intent to seek bindover on Juvenile accused of plotting a mass casualty event at Mariemont High School

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 11:48:17 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced that charges have been filed along with a motion for relinquishment of jurisdiction (bindover) of Juvenile A.B.

A.B. was charged with Conspiracy to commit Aggravated Murder. The Prosecutor’s Office is asking that A.B.’s case be bound over to the Court of Common Pleas for trial as an adult. If adjudicated as a delinquent child in juvenile court, A.B. faces a maximum possible sentence of commitment to the Ohio Department of Youth Services until age 21. If convicted as an adult,

A.B. faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole after 35 years.

Beginning in early January, A.B., along with the aid of an out-of-state co-conspirator, planned to conduct a mass casualty event at Mariemont High School. A.B., a student at Mariemont High School, had created a plan for the crime, a list of students and teachers to be killed, and a plan to access a firearm located in the home. Mariemont Police officers were able to intervene after receiving a tip from a fellow student who became aware of the plan.

Mariemont City Schools Superintendent Steve Estepp commented: “Like most communities, we certainly hoped that something like this would not happen this close to home. It’s a stark reminder that threats of violence remain a serious concern for schools and educators.

I am incredibly thankful that we can say that this was a plot thwarted and a tragedy avoided because of the proactive measures by a student and parent to report their concern to our local police department followed by the swift and thorough response of the police, FBI and prosecutor.”

Mariemont Police Chief Richard Hines commented: “I would like to thank Prosecutor Melissa Powers and her staff for their assistance in this investigation. I also want to thank the F.B.I. and the Mariemont City Schools administrative staff for their assistance in this matter. I would also be remiss to not thank the student who provided the tip that let us get out in front of a very serious situation.

In an abundance of caution, we are increasing out patrol units for the rest of this week. However, we are confident that the threat to the community and the school district has been contained.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented: “I am thankful for the great work of the Mariemont Police Department to prevent what could have been a horrific tragedy. Countless lives were saved by their actions.

Children should not fear coming to school. Teachers should not fear that their students will cause harm to them or their classmates.

Violence in our schools will not be tolerated, and my office will do what is necessary to ensure those who commit it are held responsible.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Indictments in Delhi VIP Smoke Shop Robbery

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 11:52:47 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced indictments related to the October 2023 robbery of the VIP Smoke Shop in Delhi.

Amontae Carter (DOB 1/31/04) was indicted for two counts of Murder (SF), two counts of Burglary (F2), and one count of Possession of Criminal Tools (F5). If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison with parole eligibility after 15 years.

Tony Thacker (DOB 3/7/94) was indicted for five counts of Felonious Assault (F2), one count of Tampering with Evidence (F3) and two counts of Having Weapons Under Disability (F3).

Malachi Thacker (DOB 8/2/02) was indicted for two counts of Tampering with Evidence (F3).

On October 20, 2023, after 1:00am, Carter and several other suspects arrived at the VIP Smoke Shop located on Delhi Pike. Carter and his accomplices threw rocks through the windows of the store to gain entry.

Tony Thacker, the store manager, lived in the back of the store. When he heard the glass break, he came out from the back of the store with a firearm. Thacker saw the suspects, including Amontae Carter and Travis Johnson making entry. Thacker fired multiple shots at the suspects, fatally striking Travis Johnson.

As the remaining suspects fled, Thacker ran to the front of the store continued to shoot through the front door as the remaining suspects were fleeing in the stolen cars. Thacker shot Carter as he was seated in the rear of one of stolen cars.

After the suspects were gone, Tony Thacker and his brother Malachi attempted to disable the store’s security system and remove shell casings.

Tony Thacker is not permitted to possess a firearm due to a felony juvenile adjudication.

Three juvenile suspects have previously been charged and are awaiting bindover from Juvenile Court.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I want to thank the Delhi Police Department for their tireless work solving this case.

There is simply no justification for shooting at someone as they are running away. However, I want to make perfectly clear – these retail thefts will not be tolerated. If you try to rob a store, you should expect to be shot.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers Announces Indictment of Witness Intimidation and Conspiracy to Commit Murder

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:54:54 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Charles Mosley (DOB 7/6/63) for trying to have a witness murdered.

Mosley was indicted for one count of Conspiracy to Commit Murder (F1), Attempted Murder (F1), and Intimidation of a Witness (F3). If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 14-19.5 years in prison.

In 2022, Mosley was indicted for two counts of Rape (F1), two counts of Felonious Assault (F2), and one count of Aggravated Menacing (M1) after he assaulted and raped his ex-girlfriend. On September 13, 2023, Mosley pleaded guilty to one count of Felonious Assault, but denied the counts of Rape. The Rape counts have been set for trial in January of 2024. Mosley faces an additional possible sentence of 11 years in prison on the pending Rape counts.

In October, Mosley attempted to withdraw his guilty plea to the Felonious Assault charge, but that request was denied and he was sentenced to 6-9 years in prison.

While awaiting trial in the Hamilton County Justice Center, Mosley sought out another inmate to kill his victim for $1,500 to prevent her from testifying against him.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I’m relieved this plan was discovered and stopped before any more harm could come to this victim. Her remarkable courage in the face of such evil is profoundly inspiring.

This man, who brutally attacked and raped his victim, then orchestrated her murder to escape justice, will now go to prison, hopefully for the rest of his life.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Indictment in street takeover incident

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 11:59:10 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Phillip Alwell (DOB 10/05/04) for the October 15 “street takeover” incident on Route 50 at State Street.

Alwell was indicted for one count of Inducing Panic (F4). If convicted, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.

The Prosecutor’s Office is also seeking forfeiture of Alwell’s vehicle.

On October 15, 2023, Alwell and numerous others shut down Route 50 at State Street to participate in a “street takeover” where multiple vehicles drive recklessly – doing donuts and slides – and post the incidents on social media.

The road was shut down for nearly 15 minutes and the incident caused $14,000 in damage.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I am thankful for our strong partnership with the Cincinnati Police Department and all of their hard work making an arrest.

These street takeovers are not only stupid, they are reckless. Someone is going to end up dead.

Other cities may tolerate this madness, but it will not be tolerated in Hamilton County. We will charge you with a felony and seize your vehicle. If someone is injured, you will be held responsible.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Indictment of Kelli Prather for Election Fraud

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:56:54 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Kelli Prather (DOB 4/14/72) for election fraud.

Prather was indicted for four counts of Prohibited Acts – Declarations or Petitions (F5), two counts of Tampering with Records (F3), one count of Election Falsification (F5), and one count of False Signatures (F5). If convicted of all charges, Prather faces a maximum possible sentence of three years in prison.

In 2021, Prather was a candidate for United States Senate. Prather submitted petitions to the Hamilton County Board of Elections to appear on the ballot for that election. Of the 5,619 signatures provided, 4,579 were found to be invalid. Of the 192 petition sheets filed with the Board of Elections, 74 contained zero valid signatures.

When the Hamilton County Board of Elections spot-checked parts of the petitions, they found 6 signatures with addresses associated with an abandoned building.

Some petitions filed with the Board contained all 30 signatures with obviously the same handwriting.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It is shocking that a self- proclaimed community leader would engage in such blatant fraud relating to our elections.

Elections in the United States are sacred. We can have no tolerance for individuals looking to scam their way into office.

I am thankful for the bipartisan review of the allegations by the Board of Elections – and their unwavering commitment to free and fair elections in Hamilton County.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Indictment of Ja’nasia Green

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 12:00:49 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Ja’Nasia Green (DOB 10/6/00) for the death of her 4-month-old baby.

Green was indicted on two counts of Murder (SF), one count of Felonious Assault (F2), and one count of Endangering Children (F2). If convicted of all charges, Green faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison with parole eligibility after 15 years.

Green called 911 on October 25, 2023 at 11:58am to report her son was unconscious and not breathing. Paramedics attempted life saving measures. However, it was determined the child was already deceased. When paramedics arrived, the child was cool to the touch and in full rigor mortis.

The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office ruled the child’s death a homicide. The child was found to have suffered from the following injuries:

Blunt trauma
Contusions to the left and right eyelids
Scars on his neck
Contusions and abrasions to the abdominal wall
Hemorrhages to both eyes
Bleeding beneath the scalp
Fractured ribs – both healing and acute
Petechiae of the thymus
Laceration of the liver
Internal bleeding in the abdomen

It is believed the child died approximately 9 hours prior to Green calling 911

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Cold Case Murder Indictment

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:09:51 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Robert Stewart for the 2003 murder of Herman Brown.

Stewart (DOB 3/28/59) was indicted for two counts of Murder (SF) and one count of Felonious Assault (F2). If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

On February 15, 2003, Cincinnati Police were dispatched to 2572 Sarvis Court to conduct a wellness check. The 911 caller reported a strong odor coming from the apartment.

Upon entering the apartment, Cincinnati officers discovered the victim lying naked on the floor, deceased. The victim had an extension cord wrapped around his neck and had suffered numerous stab wounds. Blood was found in the victim’s bathroom sink.

Among other evidence, investigators collected 6 cigarette butts, a DNA swab of the victim’s genitals, and a blood lift from the bathroom sink. Two DNA profiles were found in the blood from the bathroom sink – the victim’s and an unknown individual. That unknown DNA profile also matched the DNA found on the victim’s genitals and some of the cigarette butts collected from the scene.

However, investigators were not able to match the unknown DNA profile to a suspect. After exhausting all leads, the investigation into the homicide of Herman Brown went cold.

Recently, the unknown DNA profile from the cigarette butts was re-extracted and entered into a forensic genetic genealogy search. That search returned a possible suspect of Robert Stewart. Further DNA analysis confirmed Robert Stewart was the source of DNA located at the crime scene.

On September 15, 2023, Stewart was arrested in Lima, Ohio and extradited back to Hamilton County. He is currently in custody in the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $500,000 bond.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “The Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit should be commended. These dedicated detectives never give up on their cases. They never give up on their victims. They will continue to investigate until the case is solved – no matter how long it takes.

The genealogy databases have proved to be a powerful tool for law enforcement to solve cases that have been cold for years.

I am thankful we are finally able to bring closure to Herman Brown’s family and friends.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Indictment of Keith Cruz

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 12:11:00 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Keith Cruz (DOB 8/29/71). Cruz was indicted for 4 counts of Rape (F1) and 6 counts of Gross Sexual Imposition (F3). If convicted on all charges, Cruz faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

From 2011-2015, Cruz sexually assaulted multiple children ranging in age between 4-9 years old. Cruz would gain access to his victims by having romantic relationships with their mothers, or through temporary living situations.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This man followed a very specific pattern of behavior. We believe he was targeting single mothers to gain access to their children.

If you have any information about Keith Cruz, or if he had private interactions with your children, please contact Loveland Police Detective Jesse Moore at 513-774-3009.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Lance Miller

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 12:12:36 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Lance Miller (DOB 4/3/91) for the August 18 murder of a Westwood mother of two.

Miller was indicted for one count of Aggravated Murder (SF), two counts of Murder (SF), two counts of Felonious Assault (F2), one count of Kidnapping (F1), and one count of Abduction (F3). If convicted of all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

On August 18, 2023 at 10:52pm, Miller called 911 and Cincinnati Police were dispatched to 2814 Temple Avenue in Westwood. When police arrived, they were met by Lance Miller who reported there was an issue with the lease on a vehicle registered to his girlfriend, 36-year-old Kaitlyn Lynch. Miller reported Ms. Lynch was refusing to get out of the vehicle.

When officers approached Ms. Lynch, she was seated in the passenger seat of her vehicle. Ms. Lynch reported there were no problems but she would not exit her vehicle to go inside. The police officers left the scene – as there was no criminal activity being reported.

Approximately one hour after the initial 911 call, Mr. Miller went into the home, which belonged to Ms. Lynch and retrieved a firearm. As he exited the home, he opened fire on the vehicle, striking Ms. Lynch at least once. Police again were dispatched a second time to the scene.

When police arrived, Ms. Lynch’s vehicle was gone, but they found nine .40 caliber shell casings and shattered glass in the driveway. Police also found a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson M&P firearm on the front porch. Neither Mr. Miller nor Ms. Lynch was located at the residence.

Investigators initiated tracking of Miller’s and Ms. Lynch’s cell phones and determined their phones were travelling south on I-75. At 5:30am the following day, Ms. Lynch’s phone was found on the side of the road on I-75 near Lexington.

Investigators began tracking Ms. Lynch’s BMW which was located southbound on I-75 before getting on I-40 in Tennessee. Police in western Tennessee located the vehicle and attempted to make a traffic stop. Miller, who was driving the vehicle, attempted to flee. After the use of stop-sticks, Tennessee police were able to execute the traffic stop and take Miller into custody without further incident.

Ms. Lynch was located in the front passenger seat of the vehicle, deceased. It is unclear when Ms. Lynch succumbed to her injuries.

Miller has been held at the Wilson County, Tennessee jail pending extradition. Miller has since waived extradition and will be returned to Hamilton County on September 11, 2023.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This is a shocking and senseless murder of a young mother. While we deal with violent criminals on a daily basis, this case is particularly heart-wrenching.

My prayers go out to her two daughters, and I hope they can one day find peace. They have lost so much at a very early age.

We will ensure that justice is not just served but delivered with the full force of the law for them.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the indictment of Brandon Claiborne

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 12:18:24 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Brandon Claiborne for the July 23, 2023 attack on Cincinnati Police Officer Terry McGuffey.

Claiborne (DOB 3/10/89) was indicted for one count of Attempt Murder (F1), two counts of Aggravated Robbery (F1), and two counts of Felonious Assault (F1). If convicted, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 22-27.5 years in prison.

On July 23, 2023, Cincinnati Police received a report of a suspicious person at Sawyer Point. Officer Terry McGuffey responded to the scene and located an individual, later identified as Brandon Claiborne, matching the suspect’s description. Officer McGuffey engaged in a brief conversation with Claiborne before Claiborne struck McGuffey in the face and wrestled him to the ground.

Claiborne gained control of McGuffey’s taser and baton and used them to repeatedly strike McGuffey. Claiborne attempted to gouge the officer’s eyes with his thumbs.

Upon the arrival of another police officer, Claiborne was taken into custody without further incident.

Officer McGuffey suffered serious physical harm at the hand of Brandon Claiborne.

The investigation determined Claiborne wanted to kill a white police officer.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This vicious attack was nothing short of attempted murder of a police officer. Situations like this are the direct result of a growing anti-police movement that is dehumanizing law enforcement.

It is a miracle Terry McGuffey survived and our thoughts are with him and his family. Enough is enough. We will do everything within the law to put this guy behind bars for as long as we can.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Rape Indictment of Michael Toney

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:22:05 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Michael Toney (DOB 7/6/89) for two counts of Rape (F1), one count of Attempt Rape (F2), two counts of Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor (F3), one count of Gross Sexual Imposition (F3), and one count of Importuning (F3). If convicted, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 36 years in prison.

These incidents occurred between May of 2021 and May of 2023. Toney is accused of sexually assaulting three juvenile males – all of whom are developmentally disabled. Toney would befriend the victims’ adult family members in order to gain access to his victims. Toney would buy gifts for the victims to gain their trust.

In addition to the victims’ disclosures, video evidence was discovered during the course of the investigation.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It is absolutely appalling that someone could commit such heinous acts against vulnerable children.

The courage of these victims coming forward not only ensures their safety, but also prevents this individual from doing this to any other child.

We have significant concerns that other victims are out there. If you have any information about Michael Toney, please call CPD Personal Crime Unit at 513-352-3542”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Lisa Nacrelli

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:23:25 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Lisa Nacrelli (DOB 1/8/79) for the June 17, 2023 incident in Norwood involving the attempted abduction of a child.

Nacrelli was indicted for one count of Burglary (F2), one count of Impersonation of Peace Officer (F3), and one count of Attempted Abduction (F4). If convicted on all charges, Nacrelli faces a maximum possible sentence of 12.5 years in prison.

On June 17, 2023, a 7 year old child was on the sidewalk in front of his home when a female stranger approached him. The suspect, Nacrelli, rubbed the child’s head and back and asked him to come home with her. The child refused and went inside to speak with his mother. Nacrelli indicated to the mother that her name was Lisa with Child Protective Services, and was investigating a report made about the children in this home. Nacrelli entered the victim’s residence to “inspect” the home. Nacrelli then left the property.

The victims contacted Norwood Police and reported what had happened. The victims provided a description of the suspect, video from their doorbell camera and the name “Lisa.”

Norwood Police confirmed the suspect was not employed by Hamilton County Jobs and Family Services.

On June 18, 2023, officers located a woman matching the suspect description walking on Montgomery Road and took her into custody.

Nacrelli is currently detained at the Hamilton County Justice Center. Her bond was set at $32,500 at 10% by Judge Tyrone Yates.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It’s the worst nightmare for any parent but fortunately this child realized something was wrong and informed his mother. It is astounding that this woman would pretend to be with JFS and actually enter their home.

With this type of behavior, there is an obvious concern this may have happened before. If you have any information, please contact Norwood Police Department.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Officer was justified in May 22nd Officer involved shooting of Michael Craddock

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:24:14 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced that no charges would be filed against the officer in the May 22nd officer-involved shooting in the City of Reading.

Reading police officers were dispatched to the 513rd Bank on W. Benson Street for a robbery in progress. The suspect had entered the bank with a revolver, pointed the gun at the teller, jumped the counter, and ordered the teller to open the safe. Numerous other employees and customers were in the bank at the time.

A description of the suspect and a license plate were provided to police. The vehicle was associated with Michael Craddock. Reading officers responded to the address on Third Street in Reading that was associated with the plate, and found the suspect vehicle parked behind that address.

Reading officers requested mutual aid to set up a perimeter around the home. Amberley Village, Evendale, and Cincinnati units responded to aid Reading Police. The officers took tactical positions around the home, and verbal commands were issued to Craddock over a cruiser loud speaker to exit the home with nothing in his hands.

Craddock exited the home, screaming profanities at the police, and raised a firearm in the direction of the Reading officer who was issuing commands. An Amberley Village officer recognized the threat and fired one shot at Craddock, striking him in the torso. Craddock retreated into the home.

Hamilton County SWAT arrived on scene and made entry in the home. They found Craddock inside the home, deceased. Also found in the home was a Taurus .38 revolver, the jacket Craddock was wearing during the bank robbery, and over $100,000 in US Currency taken from the bank.

At the time of this incident, Craddock had arrest warrants pending relating to an incident two days prior at Kroger on Hunt Road. Craddock stole items from Kroger and as he was fleeing, attempted to run over multiple Kroger employees before ramming his vehicle into the doors of the grocery store and leaving the scene.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “The witnesses’ cooperation aided the officers’ swift response in tracking down a dangerous, out-of-control criminal. I am grateful no innocent civilians or police officers were harmed during this intense investigation and brief standoff.

Clearly, the officer’s training, professionalism, and courage deserve high commendation. The Amberly Officer astutely recognized and promptly addressed the threat, making this a shining example of effective use of force. Knowing the suspect was armed, this officer put himself in harm’s way to protect citizens and fellow officers.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Randall Mickey

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:25:46 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Randall Mickey (DOB 3/27/86) for the murder of Michael Sweeney.

Mickey has been indicted for two counts of Murder (SF), two counts of Felonious Assault (F2), two counts of Having Weapons While Under Disability (F3), and Tampering with Evidence (F3). If convicted on all charges, Mickey faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

On May 13, 2023, Sweeney and two women drove to a BP gas station located at 2112 Montana Avenue. While at the gas station, one of the women, Kimberly Cragwell, exited Sweeney’s vehicle and entered Mickey’s vehicle, where she purchased drugs. Cragwell then returned to Sweeney’s vehicle.

Mickey believed Cragwell gave him the incorrect amount of money. He got out of his vehicle and confronted her through the driver-side window of Sweeney’s car.

Sweeney drove away from the BP parking lot. Mickey followed Sweeney onto I-75 and fired two shots into Sweeney’s vehicle. Sweeney was struck in the head and his vehicle crashed. When officers responded, Cragwell made false statements to police regarding the nature of the incident; claiming it was a road-rage incident.

As a result, Cragwell has been charged with Obstructing Justice (F3).

Upon transport to the hospital, Sweeney was listed in critical condition. He succumbed to his injuries on May 15, 2023.

On June 2, 2023, CPD’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit arrested Mickey. During the arrest, Mickey threw a firearm in an attempt to conceal it from law enforcement. Mickey is not permitted to possess firearms due to prior convictions for Trafficking in Heroin and Trafficking in Cocaine.

Mickey previously served 5 years in prison relating to drug trafficking and weapons convictions in Clermont County. Mickey was on parole at the time of the incident. He was released from prison on January 30, 2023.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It is tragic and unbelievable that a man lost his life over a mere $2.00.

This felon, who was on parole, showed immense recklessness and callousness by shooting into a moving vehicle with three passengers on a busy interstate.

There is no understanding the senseless actions of this individual. Yet, it is undeniably clear that he should spend the rest of his life in prison.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of German Mathews

Mon, 08 May 2023 12:26:56 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of German Mathews. Mathews was indicted for two counts of Rape (F1), one count of Kidnapping (F1), and one count of Felonious Assault (F2). If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 22 years in prison.

On April 29, 2023, Mathews saw the victim walking to the bus stop and began following her. The victim and Mathews did not know each other. Mathews then grabbed the victim and threw her over a guardrail into a wooded area. Mathews struck the victim multiple times in the face causing significant injury. Mathews then began raping the victim.

A bystander saw this assault occurring and called 911. When Forest Park Police arrived on scene, Mathews was still assaulting the victim. Mathews fled from the police and was apprehended after a brief pursuit.

The victim is developmentally disabled and was on her way to work at the time of the attack.

Mathews is in the country illegally and was previously deported.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This man stalked and brutally attacked a total stranger. What happened to this victim is horrifying. I am so thankful to the witness who called 911 and the police officers’ quick response – that saved this victim’s life.

This defendant has been deported multiple times. This is the second case in two months of women being violently attacked and raped by individuals who are here illegally. It’s infuriating.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Andrew Blankenship

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 12:28:46 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Andrew Blankenship for the triple-fatal accident on Interstate 275 on April 7, 2023.

Blankenship was indicted for 6 counts of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (F2/F3), and two counts of Aggravated Vehicular Assault (F3/F4). If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 27 years in prison.

On April 7, 2023 around 9:30p.m., Blankenship was operating a 2003 Dodge Dakota travelling eastbound on I-275. Multiple witnesses report Blankenship was traveling between 90-100mph, without headlights, and erratically changing lanes – including passing vehicles on the shoulder.

At the 70.6 mile marker, two vehicles and a tow truck were stopped in the right shoulder. Janaya Glover was operating a 2002 Dodge Stratus that had become disabled. She had one passenger in her vehicle. Both Ms. Glover and her passenger were outside of the vehicle. Richard Glaser was operating a 2015 Lexus and was pulled over behind Ms. Glover. Mr. Glaser was in his vehicle. Mr. Glaser had stopped to aid the Glover’s with their disabled vehicle. Keith Skaggs was operating a AAA tow truck. Mr. Skaggs was kneeling near the right front tire of the Stratus.

Blankenship entered the right shoulder at a high rate of speed, striking the Lexus occupied by Mr. Glaser. The force from the accident pushed the Lexus into the Stratus and the Stratus into the tow truck.

Richard Glaser had to be mechanically extricated from the vehicle and succumbed to his injuries after being transported to the hospital.

Janaya Glover was struck and killed. Her passenger was struck and seriously injured.

Keith Skaggs was struck and killed.

At the time of the incident, the AAA truck warning lights were on and Mr. Skaggs was wearing high-visibility reflective clothing.

Blankenship then lost control of his vehicle, causing it to flip onto its roof. Bystanders attempted to render aid to all involved, including cutting Blankenship loose from his vehicle and removing him.

Subsequent investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department determined Blankenship was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Blankenship is currently being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center on $800,000 secured bond.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “My heart goes out to the family and friends of the victims. Blankenship had no respect for human life and his actions were absolutely inexcusable.

This man needs to be held responsible to the greatest extent the law will allow and be removed from society so he cannot hurt anyone else.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Indictments for the shooting in Anderson Township

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:29:41 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Lamonte Brewer and Shalonda Mixon for the shooting in Anderson Township.

Lamonte Brewer (DOB 12/4/88) was indicted for one count of Felonious Assault (F2), one count of Tampering with Evidence (F3), and two counts of Having Weapons while Under Disability (F3). If convicted, Brewer faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison.

Shalonda Mixon (DOB 8/23/88) was indicted for one count of Tampering with Evidence (F3) and one count of Obstructing Justice (F5). If convicted, Mixon faces a maximum possible sentence of four years in prison.

On March 6, 2023 at approximately 8:30 in the evening, Hamilton County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to the home of Joe Mixon in Anderson Township relating to possible shots fired. Upon arrival, witnesses on scene told deputies that teenagers in the neighborhood were playing “nerf wars” when apparent real shots were fired.

One 16 year old victim was found suffering from a single gunshot wound to his foot after being shot at with 10-11 rounds of ammunition. The victim was Mixon’s neighbor playing nerf wars with toy nerf guns with his friends in his own yard when the real gunfire started. The teenager heard multiple shots whizzing by his head and immediately ducked behind a tree fearing for his life.

Deputies responded quickly and stopped a vehicle leaving the scene. There were 2 occupants in the car. Shalonda Mixon, the sister of Joe Mixon was driving the car, and her boyfriend, Lamonte Brewer was in the passenger seat. During the stop, the Deputies located a firearm in the trunk of the vehicle which later was identified as the firearm used in the offense.

A search warrant was executed for the surveillance footage from Mixon’s home. The surveillance video showed Brewer and Joe Mixon in Mixon’s backyard and Brewer firing multiple shots at the teenager. Later, Shalonda Mixon is seen collecting shell casings from the yard before Shalonda Mixon and Lamonte Brewer fled in her vehicle.

Joe Mixon was seen carrying a firearm, but did not fire any shots. Mixon claims to have been receiving death threats and was concerned for his safety after his sister telling him there were people outside with guns. As a legal gun owner, Mixon had the right to possess the firearm and did not commit a crime.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I want to thank the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department for their thorough investigation.

It’s unbelievable something like this could even happen. It’s hard to fathom how anyone could aim a gun at a child, let alone shoot 10-11 times at them.

It’s a miracle the child was not killed. Someone like this deserves to spend as many years behind bars as the law will allow.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Rodolfo Castillo

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 12:30:49 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Rodolfo Castillo. Castillo was indicted for six counts of Kidnapping (F1), three counts of Aggravated Robbery (F1), one count of Robbery (F2), four counts of Rape (F1), and one count of Attempt Rape (F2). If convicted of all charges, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 85 years in prison.

On 2/13/23, Castillo contacted a transportation service and specifically requested a female driver to pick up a female passenger at 1440 West Kemper Road, an apartment complex in Forest Park. When the driver (victim, M.M.) arrived, Castillo entered the vehicle in the front passenger seat and directed M.M. to drive behind the apartment building. Once behind the building, Castillo stuck a large screwdriver into the ribs of M.M. and forced her into the backseat of the vehicle, threatening to kill her. Castillo tied M.M.’s hands and feet and forced her onto the floor of the vehicle.

Castillo drove M.M. to her bank and withdrew money from M.M.’s bank account. Castillo then drove M.M. to a dark, secluded parking lot and forced her to perform oral sex on him. Castillo then drove M.M. to a gas station, indicated he would kill her if she told the police, and allowed her to leave.

On 2/14/23, victim M.H. was leaving Kroger in Woodlawn. Castillo approached M.H. and offered her a ride. M.H. entered Castillo’s vehicle and they exited Kroger’s parking lot. As they were driving, Castillo took her phone. Castillo placed her phone in his pocket and punched her several times. Castillo threatened to rape and kill M.H. if she did not cooperate. At a traffic light, M.H. was able to open the car door and jump from the vehicle. A bystander assisted M.H. and called the Woodlawn Police. Castillo was able to get away before police arrived.

On 2/16/23, victim J.I. received a text requesting transportation from 1440 West Kemper Road from a number she believed was a third-party mutual friend. When she arrived at the apartment complex, Castillo entered her vehicle, held a knife to her ribs, took her phone, and directed her to an unknown location to park. He forced J.I. into the back seat, where he tied J.I.’s hands and feet. Castillo forced her onto the floor of the back seat and drove off. Castillo took J.I. to a dark parking lot and raped her.

Castillo drove her back to 1440 West Kemper where he raped her again, threatened to kill the victim if she told anyone, and released her.

Castillo is currently being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center on a $775,000 bond.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This is every woman’s worst nightmare. I can’t imagine the terror these women went through. The courage it takes to survive something like this cannot be overstated.

With this kind of predatory behavior, we are concerned there may be more victims out there. If you have any information relating to Rodolfo Castillo, we ask that you contact Forest Park Police Department at 513-595-5220.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Byron Harrington

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 12:27:47 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Byron Harrington (DOB 6/5/68).

Harrington was indicted for 3 counts of Aggravated Robbery (F1), 3 counts of Robbery (F2), 3 counts of Kidnapping (F1), 3 counts of Felonious Assault (F2), and 6 counts of Having Weapons Under Disability (F3). If convicted on all charges, Harrington faces a maximum possible sentence of 93 years in prison.

On January 19, 2023, Harrington entered the Marathon gas station at 2265 Norwood Avenue in Norwood just as the store was opening. Harrington was wearing a mask and holding a firearm. He ordered the clerk to open the safe, and zip-tied the clerk’s arms behind his back.

On March 4, 2023, Harrington entered the BP gas station located at 4900 Montgomery Road in Norwood just as the store was opening. Harrington struck the clerk with a firearm numerous times and ordered him to open the safe. The clerk was unable to open the safe. Harrington then removed all of the cash from the cash registers. He zip-tied the clerk’s hands and legs and drug him to the rear of the store before fleeing.

On April 16, 2023, Harrington entered the McDonald’s at 1695 E Kemper Road in Sharonville just as the store was opening. Harrington presented a firearm to the employee and attempted to get access to the safe. Harrington restrained the employee with zip-ties before fleeing.

Harrington is not permitted to possess a firearm due to prior felony convictions for violence and drug possession.

Harrington is on parole. He was released from prison in March of 2021 after serving 14 years for a string of Breaking and Entering and Safecracking charges.

Harrington is currently being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center on $500,000 secured bond.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “I am thankful this man was caught before someone was seriously injured. He is clearly escalating and is a danger to our community.

Sadly, some people cannot be rehabilitated. 14 years in prison obviously did not teach him a lesson. We will pursue justice to ensure he is in prison for as long as possible.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces the Indictment of Carlos Ramirez for the February 2nd incident in Evendale

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 12:32:34 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictment of Carlos Ramirez. Ramirez was indicted for two counts of Felonious Assault (F1), two counts of Failure to Comply (F3/4), one count of Inducing Panic (M1), and five counts of Aggravated Menacing (M1). If convicted on all charges, Ramirez faces a maximum possible sentence of 24 years in prison.

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On February 2, 2023, Evendale officers initiated a traffic stop near the intersection of Reading and Fortney Roads. The driver of that vehicle attempted to alert officers of an erratic driver of a pickup truck. While officers were taking this information from the driver, they heard a loud boom consistent with a gunshot.

The Evendale officers released the driver from the traffic stop and attempted to locate the source of the gunshot. A third officer responded to the area to provide assistance. The driver of the original traffic stop flagged down the third officer and pointed in the direction of Reading Road and McSwain Drive. The third officer entered the parking lot the Speedway located at that intersection and came upon Carlos Ramirez.

Ramirez came out from behind a gas pump holding a shotgun. The officer gave verbal commands for Ramirez to drop the gun. Ramirez raised the shotgun at the officer, causing the officer to believe Ramirez would shoot him. The officer fired several rounds at Ramirez.

Ramirez entered his vehicle and fled the scene. While fleeing, Ramirez fired one shot in the direction of the officer. Ramirez then led police on a high-speed, multi-jurisdictional chase. Ultimately, Ramirez crashed his vehicle into a Metro bus in the City of Cincinnati. Upon apprehension, Cincinnati Police Officers recovered the shotgun and one spent shotgun shell in the vehicle.

Prior to shooting at the officer, Ramirez had threatened five civilians with the shotgun.

Approximately seven hours prior to this incident, Ramirez had been released from Warren County jail after his arrest for OVI and Improper Handling of a Firearm.

Given the immediate threat presented to the officer when Ramirez raised the shotgun at him, it was determined that the officer’s discharge of his firearm was justified.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “This man is an obvious danger to our community and I am thankful he was taken off the streets without anyone being injured.

This behavior will not be tolerated. Anyone in this county who threatens the lives of our officers will go to prison for a long time.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announces Wyoming officers were justified in January 30th shooting

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 12:34:10 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced that no charges would be filed against Wyoming Police Officers in the January 30th officer-involved shooting of Joe Frasure.

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Wyoming Police were dispatched to Durrell Avenue for a burglary in progress. When the Wyoming Police Officers arrived, they encountered two individuals in the rear of an apartment building, later identified as Joe Frasure Jr. (DOB 6/3/94) and his father, Joseph Frasure Sr. (DOB 5/27/70).

Frasure Sr. was standing on the driveway near a grey minivan. The son, Frasure Jr., was behind the wheel of the minivan. Officers shouted multiple commands to both Frasures to stop, put their hands in the air, exit the vehicle and get on the ground. Frasure Sr. did not comply.

Frasure Jr., in an attempt to get away, put his vehicle in reverse and crashed into a tree. The officers continued to shout commands for him to stop and get out of the car. Frasure Jr. remained noncompliant, put the car in drive and quickly accelerated with the clear intent to drive his vehicle straight at the officers. After nearly striking one officer, Frasure Jr. then steered his vehicle in the direction of the other two officers. The officers continued shouting commands to stop while barely escaping the danger of being struck and potentially killed.

In an act of self-defense, both officers discharged a total of four rounds at the suspect as the vehicle sped within feet of them. Several shots struck the vehicle and at least one shot struck Frasure. The vehicle then crashed into the side of the apartment building.

Meanwhile, Frasure Sr. fled on foot and was apprehended several blocks away. Immediately following the crash, officers began lifesaving measures on Frasure Jr. until paramedics arrived and transported him to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Frasure Jr. succumbed to his injuries on January 31, 2023.

At the time of the offense, Frasure Jr. was on probation in Indiana for Felony Battery – Victim Under 14 and had an active probation violation warrant. Frasure Jr. was on parole in Kentucky for Manufacturing Methamphetamine and had an active parole violation warrant for absconding

At the time of the offense, Frasure Sr. had a warrant for his arrest relating to a misdemeanor theft charge from December of 2022.

“I know that no police officer ever wants to discharge their service weapon in the line of duty.” said Hamilton County Prosecutor, Melissa Powers. “I am thankful for the thorough and timely investigation completed by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. Any loss of life is tragic and our thoughts are with the Wyoming Police Officers who will forever live with this in their memories, their families and our community, as well as the Frasure family.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers Announces the Murder indictments of Hydia Hamilton-Smith and Rodney Williams

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 12:36:21 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers announced the indictments of Hydia Hamilton-Smith (DOB 10/25/98) and Rodney Williams (7/10/91) for the death of 21-month-old Darnell Gamble. Williams is also indicted for the abuse of a two year old child (A.D.) in 2018.

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Hamilton-Smith was indicted for two counts of Murder (SF), one count of Felonious Assault (F2), two counts of Endangering Children (F2/F3), and one count of Involuntary Manslaughter (F1).

Williams was indicted for two counts of Murder (SF), one count of Felonious Assault (F2), and two counts of Endangering Children (F2).

If convicted on all charges, both defendants face a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

On July 31, 2022, Hamilton-Smith called 911 to report a burn injury to Gamble. Gamble was taken to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital where he was ultimately pronounced dead. The cause of death was determined to be head trauma.

Gamble’s autopsy revealed the following injuries: cigarette burns, burns to left side of body (undetermined cause), bite marks on right shoulder, upper arm, left lower leg, hands and fingers, liver laceration, rib fracture, optic nerve damage, and brain trauma.

At the time the injuries occurred, Gamble was in the exclusive care of Hamilton-Smith and Williams. Hamilton-Smith is Gamble’s mother. Williams is Hamilton-Smith’s boyfriend.

Williams is also indicted for an incident in 2018. Williams abused his then-girlfriend’s two-year-old child,

A.D. Upon presentation to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, A.D. was found to have the following injuries: abdominal bruising, liver lacerations, lacerations on the adrenal gland, a black eye, fluid in his pelvis, bite marks, and swollen and blistered lips. A.D. survived his injuries.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “What happened to these innocent babies is horrific. I can’t imagine the pain these children suffered during their short lives.

Someone who is capable of something like this should never get out of prison.”

Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office announces the swearing in of Prosecutor Melissa Powers

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 12:37:29 GMT

Today, Melissa Powers was sworn in as Hamilton County Prosecutor. Prosecutor Powers was sworn in by former Hamilton County Prosecutor and current Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, Joe Deters.

Melissa Powers began her legal career in 1991 working as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Hamilton County’s Juvenile, Municipal, and Common Pleas Courts. She also practiced in the Appellate Division, arguing cases to the 1st District Court of Appeals. Most notably, in 1997, she obtained the confession from Joseph Paul Franklin, a white-supremacist serial killer. This confession finally solved the 17-year-old double murder of two boys in Cincinnati.

It was during her time as an Assistant Prosecutor where she learned the importance of providing justice and closure to victims of violent crime and their families.

In 1998, Melissa left the Prosecutor’s Office to begin her private litigation practice, where she specialized in criminal defense and civil litigation.

In 2006, Governor Bob Taft appointed Melissa to serve on the Hamilton County Municipal Court. During her 10 years in the Municipal Court bench, she established the first Hamilton County Veterans Treatment Court that incorporated an innovative team approach and community collaboration to address the unique needs of justice-involved combat veterans. This highly successful treatment court was a model used throughout the State of Ohio as it concentrated on reducing recidivism by focusing on alcohol/drug addiction and Post Traumatic Stress therapy.

In 2016, Melissa was elected to serve on the Hamilton County Juvenile Court. There, she presided over custody, dependency, and delinquency cases; including hundreds of violent felonies committed by juvenile offenders. Melissa was the Juvenile Court Administrative Judge from 2020-2022. As Administrative Judge, Powers was responsible for managing 300 employees and a $35 million budget.

Melissa is a lifelong Cincinnatian, graduating from McAuley High School in 1979, the University of Cincinnati in 1984, and the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1991. She has served on numerous boards, including Cincinnati Works, Operations Legal Help Ohio, Cincinnati Fire Foundation, and the Tri-State Veterans Community Alliance. Melissa is married and is the proud mother of four children and grandmother of four grandchildren.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers commented, “It is the honor of a lifetime to be sworn in as the next Hamilton County Prosecutor.

When it became clear that Joe Deters was leaving, I felt a sense duty and obligation to the city I love and the office I love. We, and our law enforcement partners, are the people standing in the gap – the people who hold the line. We are the difference between safe neighborhoods and lawlessness.

I look forward to serving the people of Hamilton County.”

State of Ohio v Joseph Paul Franklin

Sat, 14 Jan 2023 20:52:28 GMT

Court TV has the Joseph Paul Franklin trial in it's entirety. CLICK HERE to access those videos.

By the time Joseph Paul Franklin showed up in Cincinnati in 1980, he’d already killed over half a dozen people, firebombed a synagogue, robbed some banks, altered dozens of lives, and kicked off a three-year reign of terror that dotted the Midwest and the Mid-Atlantic with bodies.

But he wanted more. Much more. And in June 1980, Franklin brought his criminality to the Queen City.

June eighth was a balmy, sunny day, with a high of 59 degrees and the first blush of summer still a few weeks away. Cousins Darrell Lane and Dante Evans set out from their neighborhood to the corner store to pick up some snacks. It was Sunday, the day was lazy and quiet, and the cousins were close friends.

But they never came home. Instead, they were murdered—the victims of a sniper shooting.

Darrell was thirteen. Dante was fourteen.

The case sparked one of the largest manhunts in Cincinnati history, and the public demanded resolution. While investigators settled quickly on Joseph Paul Franklin as a suspect, the lack of evidence made investigators believe they could not get a conviction without a confession.

Seventeen years passed.

In spring 1997, investigators enlisted Melissa Powers in their renewed efforts around the case. She convinced then prosecuting attorney Joseph Deters to allow her to contact Franklin after doing a lot of research on his background. At the time, Franklin was in a maximum-security prison in Missouri, and faced the death penalty in that state for several other heinous murders. Powers began by writing Franklin a letter.

“I was certain that if I just showed up, he would never speak to men,” she later said. “I knew there was usually a sexual motivation to serial killers. “I basically indicated that I was interested in the Cincinnati case, and the only request that I indicated in the letter is that I asked if he would help me,” Powers later said in court.

Powers and Franklin sent a few letters to each other and talked on the phone before she traveled to Potosi Correctional Center in April 1997. On April 13, the two met in a lawyer conference room there. The room was very small, with only a table, two chairs, and doors in either side.

It was a meeting that would change many lives.

“He leaned his shoulder into mine, and his glasses were lowered on his nose, and he goes, you know I did it,” Powers told at Hamilton County jury in 1998. “My response was, did what? And he said, I killed those dudes, and he said, which dudes, and he goes, the ones in Cincinnati.”

After that exchange, a correctional guard then moved Franklin to the nearby table, and they sat down across from each other.

Because Frankling was able have contact with Powers, he was very physical and wanted touch his feet with hers. “As he was telling me the story, the ankle bracelets were clanging against the metal, and he was excited, he was turned on,” Powers remembered.

Franklin moved his chair so he’d be caddy-corner from her, and they would be able to talk closely.

“I was nervous, and not very comfortable at all,” Powers recalled to the jury at Franklin’s murder trial. “This was different in the sense that this was somebody who had killed many people, or at least that was the belief that I had going in. I’m on death row, I’m locked into a room with the defendant. I tried to have the appearance that I was not scared, and not afraid, but inside, I was afraid and very scared. I did not want to hear what I was going to hear.”

Over the course of the next few hours, Franklin recounted the double homicide to Powers. He explained he started carrying out his crimes to start a race war, having become convinced that he was his calling in life. While he intended to shoot a mixed-race couple on June 8 ^th , none passed by. Instead, he shot the teenage cousins after seeing them walking on Reading Road.

“He was ready to leave, he heard voices, and the two boys were walking to the pony keg,” Powers recalls.

Franklin had almost no emotion when recounting the murders of the Bond Hill boys.

“He told me that he was going to make me famous, and that he was going to tell me everything,” Powers told the court during Franklin’s subsequent trial. She recorded their dialogue in the Missouri prison.

“We to make this a conversation. He hated law enforcement so much, he hated the detectives so much, and we wanted to make this a conversation.”

During the conversation, Franklin also confessed to committing two other double homicides during the month of June 1980. He told Powers he killed Arthur Smothers and Kathleen Mikula in Johnstown Pennsylvania on June 15th, 1980. Arthur and Kathleen were walking across the Washington Street Bridge at the time; Franklin also carried out these murders as sniper attacks. He hid on a wooded hillside some distance away from the bridge.

“He was not emotional at all until he started talking about the Johnstown case,” Powers remembered.

Finally, Franklin told Powers he killed two hitchhikers in West Virginia on June 25, 1980. Franklin said he shot Nancy Santomero and Vicki Durian after one of the women mentioned she had a black boyfriend. He asked if they would ever date a black man and one of them said they would.

“I decided to waste her,” he said. Franklin’s legal confession to that double homicide later led to the freeing of Jacob Beard, a man who’d been wrongfully imprisoned in the hitchhiker case. Beard was freed when a West Virgina court ordered a new trail based on Franklin’s confession.

After just one full day of testimony a Hamilton County jury convicted Franklin of the murder of Darrell Lane and Dante Evans. Judge Ralph Winkler sentenced him to ninety-nine years in prison.

The state of Missouri executed Franklin in 2013.

County, Vera Institute of Justice, Partner on Jail Data Dashboard

duda@munission.com (Daniel Bratone) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 23:05:12 GMT

County, Vera Institute of Justice, Partner on Jail Data Dashboard

On March 22, 2021, Hays County will unveil a new public-facing jail population dashboard, developed in partnership with the Vera Institute of Justice. Commissioner Lon Shell (Pct. 3) will present the dashboard at a virtual news conference at 9 a.m. (CDT) on Monday , featuring representatives of Vera as well as directly impacted community members, followed by a walk-through of the data and analysis presented in the dashboard for members of the news media and the public.

While local jails are one of the most ubiquitous facets of the justice system, the drivers and consequences of jail incarceration often receive inadequate attention. The Hays County Jail Dashboard will enable timely insight into the Hays County Jail population, furthering good governance, community oversight of the local justice system, and evidence-driven policy reforms.

The Dashboard was developed in partnership with the Vera Institute of Justice’s ‘In Our Backyards’ (IOB) initiative. The IOB team developed the innovative Jail Population Project to provide granular, real-time data about local jail populations.

Monday’s news conference will include a walk-through of the dashboard and the opportunity for a public question and answer session via Zoom.

WHEN: Monday, March 22 at 9 a.m. CDT

WHERE: Register to attend the News Conference HERE

Hays County COVID-19 Update March 22

duda@munission.com (Daniel Bratone) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 21:52:27 GMT

Hays County COVID-19 Update March 22

Hays County Local Health Department (HCLHD) reports 36 new lab-confirmed cases along with nine (9) new hospitalizations and one (1) new hospital discharge since Friday’s report. There are 34 additional persons considered recovered. The total number of persons considered recovered is 16,255.

The current total of lab-confirmed cases for Hays County since the beginning of the pandemic is 16,913. Hays County has 423 active cases. In the past 21 days there have been 645 active cases. Hays County has had 781 total COVID-related hospitalizations and 14 people are currently hospitalized.

HCLHD officials urge everyone to continue following COVID-19 health and safety protocols, including frequent vigorous hand washing, social distancing, wearing face masks and avoiding in-person gatherings.

Hays County Seeks Public Input on Three Transportation Projects

duda@munission.com (Daniel Bratone) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 21:50:05 GMT

Hays County Seeks Public Input on Three Transportation Projects

Hays County Courthouse, San Marcos, TX — The County is hosting three separate Virtual Open Houses to share information and collect input from the community for the Hillside Terrace Improvements Project , the Windy Hill Road Project , and the Dripping Springs Southwest Connection Study (also known as the Improve 150 Project).

“Road safety continues to be a top priority for Hays County.” said Jerry Borcherding, Hays County Transportation Director. “The County is sharing information with the community and asking for input so we can continue to focus on transportation to improve mobility, safety, and connectivity in Hays County.”

The virtual events run from Monday, March 22 to Friday, April 9 . The online Open Houses will allow area residents to be involved in sharing input on existing road conditions, travel needs, and proposed improvements where identified. The public can visit the project website links for open house videos and comment opportunities. Comments may be submitted through online comment forms, email, mail, or voicemail through the April 9 deadline.

Additionally, the project teams have set aside Wednesday, March 31 , for individual phone or web appointments .

Please use the project-specific contact information below to schedule an appointment, learn more about a project, see the project area maps, or to submit comments.

VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSES

March 22 – April 9, 2021

Hillside Terrace Improvements Project – includes road widening and improvements to Hillside Terrace from I-35 Northbound Frontage Road to FM 2001, and Old Goforth Road from north of Hillside Terrace to Green Meadows Lane.

Web: www.hillsideterraceimprovements.com

Email: info@hillsideterraceimprovements.com

Phone: (512) 400-4297

Windy Hill Road Project – includes road widening and improvements to Windy Hill Road from the Kyle city limits to FM 2001.

Web: www.windyhillimprovements.com

Email: info@windyhillimprovements.com

Phone: (512) 400-4297

Dripping Spring Southwest Connection – is a study of the extension of the RM 150 Corridor and development of a roadway from RM 12 around the southwest side of Dripping Springs to US 290 near the area of Holder Lane.

Web: www.improve150.com/connection

Email: info@improve150.com

Phone: (512) 400-4297

Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph T. Deters announces upgraded charges in death of Elder teacher

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 14:55:56 GMT

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph T. Deters announced upgraded charges against Kayla Wilson in the death of Elder teacher Mark Klusman. Wilson is now charged with 1 count of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (Felony 1 for driving while impaired and with a suspended license), 1 count of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (Felony 2 for driving recklessly and with a suspended license), 1 count of Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Felony 3) and 1 count of Tampering with Evidence (Felony 3). Her original charges of 1 count of Aggravated Vehicular Assault (Felony 2), 1 count of Vehicular Assault (Felony 3) and 1 count of Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Felony 4) will be dismissed in light of the new charges. If convicted of all the charges, she faces the possibility of 17 years in prison.

On December 9th, Wilson was driving her 2000 Buick Regal at a speed of over 50 miles per hour on Warsaw Avenue. The posted speed limit in the area is 35 miles per hour. Wilson lost control of her vehicle going through a sharp bend in the area where the signage indicates 25 miles per hour. She struck Mr. Klusman who was standing by the side of the road volunteering in the area to pick up litter.

Wilson fled the scene and eventually abandoned her disabled vehicle in the downtown Cincinnati area. Cincinnati Police determined that she was the registered owner of the vehicle and arrested her on December 12th.

Mr. Klusman died on December 26th as a result of injuries sustained in the collision.

Prosecutor Deters commented, “Our community lost a beloved teacher, friend, and mentor in a senseless tragedy. Our prison system will gain another inmate.”