Examples of Ohio Ethics Law Violations
- Acquisition of Historic Real Estate: Public funds were used to purchase historic real estate, which was then rented at below market value to the daughter of the Finance Director and the twin brother of a Village Council member.
- Remodeling with Public Funds: Historic real estate purchased with public funds was remodeled, including the construction of a garage. There was a conspiracy with the new police chief to avoid income tax by classifying housing and utilities as part of “non-taxable” employee compensation. The Ohio Auditor of State eventually cited these actions for violations.
- Sale of Historic Real Estate: Taxpayer funds were utilized to purchase historic real estate, which was then remodeled using additional taxpayer funds. The property was sold to the daughter of the Village Finance Director without being listed for sale.
- Questionable Sale of Real Estate: Taxpayer funds were used to acquire historic real estate, which was remodeled with those same funds. The property was sold, without a public listing, to the son and future brother-in-law of two sitting Village Council members who approved the sale.
- Garage Complex Misuse: A garage complex was purchased with taxpayer funds, which was then used rent-free to store the Municipal Manager’s antique car collection.
- Improper Salary Payments: Public funds were used to pay the Recreation Director a salary of $2,000, which was halted by Jane Berry due to unethical practices.
- And More! By the way, despite his history of unethical conduct, Dave wishes to be reinstated as Mayor.