Morrow County Prosecutor's Office

10/07/2026

The Morrow County Prosecutor's Office sends its prayers to our brethren in Hamilton County as they continue to seek to bring justice in the case involving the murder of Deputy Larry Henderson.

10/06/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Morrow County Victim Services K9 Mayor and Director Ettel Achieve Ohio State Certification as Crisis K9 Team

Morrow County, Ohio — October 6, 2026 — Morrow County Prosecutor's Office Director of Victim Services Richelle Ettel and K9 Mayor have completed the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission (OPOTC) and Ohio Attorney General's Office Crisis K9/Therapy K9 First Response Course, earning Ohio State Certification as a Crisis K9 Team.

Approximately one year ago, K9 Mayor joined the Morrow County Prosecutor's Office with a primary mission: to provide comfort and support to victims as they navigate the criminal justice system.

Mayor came to the Prosecutor's Office at no cost to Morrow County taxpayers, after receiving approximately $50,000 in initial training before being matched with Director Ettel. Since his arrival, however, Mayor's role has expanded well beyond the initial mission envisioned for him.

Over the past year, K9 Mayor and Director Ettel have responded to and participated in a variety of settings throughout the community, including local schools, the Morrow County Jail, court proceedings, community events, and situations where law enforcement believed the presence of a trained therapy dog could assist in calming or de-escalating a situation.

Director Ettel and Mayor have also continued to expand their training and expertise. The team has attended specialized training in Chicago and New Orleans and recently presented at a conference in Columbus.

“People in crisis are not always going to be encountered within the four walls of the Prosecutor's Office. Some may never come through our doors at all,” said Morrow County Prosecutor Andrew Wick. “Richelle and Mayor have spent the past year building the skills and experience necessary to go where those people are. This certification is another step in making sure that Morrow County has a resource available when victims, witnesses, children, families, or members of our community need a little extra support.”

The Crisis K9 certification recognizes the team's continued commitment to providing trauma-informed support and expanding the ways in which the Morrow County Prosecutor's Office can respond to people experiencing difficult and sometimes traumatic circumstances.

“The impact that Mayor has had on our office and our community over the past year has been remarkable,” Prosecutor Wick said. “What began as an effort to make the criminal justice process a little less intimidating for victims has grown into something much bigger. Richelle and Mayor have demonstrated that this program can reach far beyond the Prosecutor's Office.”

The Morrow County Prosecutor's Office extends its congratulations to Director Richelle Ettel and K9 Mayor on achieving Ohio State Certification as a Crisis K9 Team and looks forward to the continued expansion of their work throughout Morrow County.

10/05/2026

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault are the two hardest kinds of cases to prosecute. Offenders often destroy the confidence and independence of their victims first making it so that the victims do not feel they can do it without the offender or that they did something to cause the offender to hurt them. Add in a society who sometimes does not understand that people react differently to these horrible events and it is a perfect storm. At the Morrow County Prosecutor's Office we fight daily for the victims of these crimes so they can escape the cycle of violence.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic or s*xual violence, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office, Morrow County Sheriffs Office, Mt. Gilead Ohio, Mount Gilead Police Department - OHIO, Cardington Police Department, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

09/29/2026

Our Dear Leader has wagered his face for the Friends of the Library fundraiser. We at the Morrow County Prosecutor's Office would never dream of encouraging people to financially contribute to his being pied. There of course, are all manner of aggravating circumstances that would warrant him getting pied. But of course we would never suggest people should both support the Mount Gilead Library and see Andrew get pied.

🥧 MEET CONTESTANT #6: ANDREW WICK! 🥧

Things are getting serious… or at least as serious as a pie to the face can be.

Our next Pie in the Face contestant is Andrew Wick, from the Morrow County Prosecutor's Office!

Andrew spends his days dealing with the law, making arguments, and keeping things on the right side of the courtroom.

But this October, the people get to make the call.

Will Andrew successfully defend himself against the whipped-cream evidence?
Will the prosecution object?
Will the judge allow it?

We’ll let the donations decide.

From October 1–21, your donations will count as votes toward deciding which of our Village VIPs gets the ultimate punishment…

A PIE. IN. THE. FACE.

HOW DO YOU DONATE?

💵 At the Mount Gilead Library
🙋‍♀️ Through any Friends of the Library member
💻 Online through Givebutter (more to come!)

However you choose to vote, your dollars bring us one step closer to PIE IN THE FACE! (and supporting the Mount Gilead Public Library)

09/29/2026

COURT UPDATES

9/21/26
State v. Matthew Horn 2025 CR 0030 (Theft of Drugs F4): State dismissed the probation violation due to medical issues while at CBCF. Defendant’s terms of community control modified to remove CBCF requirement to complete the Riverside program. Defendant continued on community control sanctions. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

9/22/26
State v. Tiffany Artressia 2025 CR 0072 (Identity Fraud F5, Obstructing Official Business M2): Defendant pled guilty to Identity Fraud, a felony of the fifth degree.

On March 17, 2025 during a traffic stop, Defendant gave the name, social security number and date of birth of another individual, Tami Young. Tami Young ended up having a Warrant, so Defendant was arrested and transported to Ontario, OH to turn her over for the Warrant. Ontario PD called Officer Ramey and informed him that the individual, after fingerprinting, was discovered to actually be Tiffany Artressia.

Case set for sentencing on October 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Case investigated by Officer Brandon Ramey of the Cardington Police Department. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Stephanie Goligoski 2025 CR 0109 (Theft, F5, Theft from Person of Protected Class F5 X 3): Defendant pled guilty of 1 count of Theft, F5 and 2 counts of Theft from Person in Protected Class, F5. One count of Theft from Person in Protected Class dismissed.
Victim asked her home health worker, the Defendant, to pick up her medications on July 25, 2025. The pharmacy was closed, so the Defendant used her card to get gas. The Defendant ended up using the credit card 3 times, 1 on July 25, 2025 and 2 on July 30, 2025. Defendant originally denied this, then when Officer Cronenwett appeared to pick up Victim's Witness Statement, he overheard the Defendant admitting that she used the card these 3 occasions outside the scope of consent, and offering to repay her. Claimed it was an "accidental use." Victim's Date of Birth is 3/21/1957, making her 68 years of age at the time of the offense.
Case investigated by Captain Cronenwett of MGPD. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Quincy Boone 2025 CR 0129 (Possession of Drugs F5): Defendant was sentenced to 3 years of community control. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

9/23/26
State v. Nicholas Smith 2024 CR 0132 (Felonious Assault F2 X2, Vandalism F5): State moved to dismiss 2 counts of Felonious Assault and amend Vandalism to Attempted Vandalism, M1, per victim’s request and upon further investigation.

On April 3, 2024, Cardington Police was dispatched in relation to a harassment complaint. Victim explained that the Defendant struck her vehicle with his truck causing extensive damage.

Sentencing scheduled for November 12, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Case investigated by Deputy Convy of MCSO. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Orlando Garnes 2026 CR 0065 (Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity F2, Forgery F5 X2, Complicity F5 X3, Complicity F4 X2, Theft F5, Attempted Theft M1) State moved to dismiss Engaging in Pattern of Corrupt Activity. Defendant pled guilty to Forgery F5 x2, Complicity F5 x2, Theft F5, and Attempted Theft M1.

On July 2, 2026, officers from the Cardington Police Department responded to the First Federal Bank in Cardington after bank personnel reported that Orlando Garnes was attempting to negotiate a suspected counterfeit check. Upon arrival, officers contacted Garnes inside the bank before the transaction was completed. During the investigation, Garnes admitted he had already been to the First Federal Bank branch in Mount Gilead earlier that day to cash another large check. Officers subsequently learned that Garnes had successfully negotiated a counterfeit check for $2,984.20 at the Mount Gilead branch shortly before arriving in Cardington. The investigation further revealed that First Federal employees at both the Mount Gilead and Cardington branches recognized the same three individuals—Orlando Garnes, James Christian Jr., and Tony Smith—as having negotiated or attempted to negotiate similar counterfeit checks at their branches over three consecutive days. Officers recovered the counterfeit check Garnes attempted to cash in Cardington, as well as additional counterfeit checks made payable to James Christian Jr. and Tony Smith, each bearing similar formatting and amounts, indicating a coordinated counterfeit check scheme. Bank employees advised that the suspects may have parked near the American Legion Park and walked to the Cardington branch. Mount Gilead surveillance video was requested and preserved, although the Cardington branch's camera system was inoperable at the time of the offense.
Sentencing occurred September 28, 2026 and the Defendant received 18 months and is required to pay restitution to the Victim.

Case investigated by Chief Otterbacher and Officer Goetz of Cardington Police Department and Officer Gattshall of MGPD. Case prosecuted by Prosecutor Andrew Wick.

9/25/26
State v. William Hoffer nka Miller 2022 CR 0102 (Possession of Drugs F5): Defendant admitted to violating the terms of his community control by being unsuccessfully terminated from CBCF. State requested the Court revoke community control and order defendant to serve a prison sentence of 12 months. Defendant requested the Court continue the defendant on community control or order a lesser prison sentence. Court ordered the defendant to serve 12 months in prison. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Bikas Kami 2024 CR 0050 (Failure to Appear F4): State requested the defendant, after violating the terms of his community control again, be ordered to serve 18 months in prison. defendant requested continued community control with Knox Recovery or a reduced sentence. Court ordered the defendant to serve 18 months in prison. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Cody Gilkerson 2026 CR 0003 (Theft from Person in a Protected Class F5): Defendant pled guilty to the sole count of the Indictment. Sentencing scheduled for October 15, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.

On 12/4/25, the Defendant transferred $200 from the Victim's bank account to his PayPal account. The Defendant did not have permission to do so. Victim is elderly and as such it is enhancable.
Case investigated by Sgt. Pearon and Deputy Winkler of MCSO. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

09/28/2026

Our Director of Victim Services Richelle Ettel and Mayor will be attending this crucial training this week to further their abilities to go out into the community and be available for those in crisis.

09/23/2026

There was recently an inquiry to Morrow County Recorder, Brandon Strain regarding family cemeteries and burials. In collaboration with Recorder Strain, Prosecutor Wick has created some informational guidance on this topic. There is no requirements on a county level regarding registration or otherwise, but this information can help make the process go smoothly during an otherwise uncertain and difficult time.

INFORMATIONAL GUIDELINES FOR PRIVATE FAMILY CEMETERIES
AND FAMILY BURIALS

Purpose

These guidelines are intended to provide general information to Morrow County residents who are considering establishing or maintaining a private family cemetery or conducting a family burial on privately owned property.
These guidelines are informational only. They are not intended to create a County permitting or approval process, and they do not replace the requirements of the Ohio Revised Code or any applicable federal, state, or local law.
Because the circumstances surrounding a proposed burial may vary, property owners are encouraged to consult with appropriate legal, surveying, funeral, and governmental professionals as necessary.

1. What is a Family Cemetery?
Ohio law recognizes a distinction between a family cemetery and a cemetery operated for the general public.

Under R.C. 4767.02(D), the registration provisions of R.C. Chapter 4767 do not apply to a "family cemetery." For purposes of that statute, a family cemetery is a cemetery containing human remains of persons, at least three-fourths of whom have a common ancestor or who are the spouse or adopted child of that common ancestor.
Whether a particular burial site qualifies as a family cemetery depends upon the facts and circumstances of the particular situation.

2. County or Township Approval
A private family cemetery on privately owned property should not be confused with a cemetery established, owned, operated, or maintained by a township.

R.C. Chapter 517 addresses cemeteries acquired, established, and maintained by townships. For example, R.C. 517.01 authorizes township trustees to acquire or appropriate land for cemetery purposes, while R.C. 517.06 addresses the platting and administration of cemeteries under township control.

Those provisions should not be construed as creating a general requirement that a property owner obtain township approval before conducting a qualifying family burial on privately owned property.

Ohio Attorney General Opinion 2007-005 concluded that a board of township trustees is without authority to prohibit the burial of human remains on private property within the unincorporated area of a township. The opinion also concluded that a local board of health does not have authority to adopt a regulation prohibiting the burial of a deceased family member on privately owned family property.

Accordingly, the County and Township should treat these guidelines as informational rather than as an application or approval process.

3. Cemetery Registration
A qualifying family cemetery is exempt from the cemetery-registration requirements contained in R.C. 4767.02 through 4767.04.

The Ohio Revised Code places registration responsibilities on cemeteries subject to Chapter 4767 but expressly provides that those provisions do not apply to a family cemetery as defined by the statute.

Residents should therefore not assume that a private family cemetery must be registered with the Ohio Division of Real Estate merely because it constitutes a cemetery.

If there is uncertainty as to whether a proposed cemetery qualifies as a "family cemetery," the property owner should obtain legal advice or contact the appropriate state agency before proceeding.

4. Survey and Identification of the Burial Area
Although a survey may not be required solely because a family cemetery is being established, Morrow County recommends that property owners consider having the burial area professionally surveyed and accurately identified.

A survey can help:
• establish the location and boundaries of the burial area;
• identify the location of individual graves;
• preserve information concerning the cemetery for future generations;
• reduce the possibility of future construction, excavation, or agricultural activity disturbing graves;
• assist future property owners in identifying the cemetery; and
• create a permanent record of the location of the burial area.

A property owner should discuss with a licensed surveyor the most appropriate method for identifying the cemetery based upon the size, location, and anticipated future use of the property.

5. Property Records
The County recommends that property owners consider documenting the existence and location of a family cemetery in the property's permanent records.

Depending upon the circumstances, this may include:
• recording an appropriate survey or plat;
• recording an affidavit or other document identifying the cemetery;
• placing an appropriate notation or reference in the chain of title;
• maintaining a map identifying the location of each grave; and
• retaining photographs and other records concerning the cemetery.

Recording such information may help ensure that future owners are aware of the burial area.
A property owner should consult with the County Recorder or a private attorney concerning the appropriate document and recording procedure.

The County Recorder's Office should not be understood to be approving the establishment of the cemetery merely because a document identifying the cemetery is accepted for recording.

6. Burial and Death-Related Requirements
These guidelines concern the establishment and identification of a private family cemetery. They do not eliminate other requirements that may apply to the disposition and interment of human remains.

Before conducting a burial, property owners should determine whether applicable requirements concerning such matters as:
• the death certificate;
• disposition or burial permits;
• transportation of human remains;
• funeral-home or funeral-director services;
• burial records;
• vaults, containers, or other interment practices;
• environmental or water-related considerations; or
• other applicable state or local requirements apply to the particular circumstances.

Residents should consult the appropriate governmental agency or qualified professional regarding requirements applicable to the specific burial.

7. Health Department
The existence of a private family cemetery does not, by itself, create a general County or local Health Department approval process.

Ohio Attorney General Opinion 2007-005 concluded that a local board of health lacks authority to adopt a regulation prohibiting the burial of a deceased family member on privately owned family property.

This does not mean that every activity associated with a property containing a family cemetery is outside the jurisdiction of the Health Department or other governmental agencies. Separate laws and regulations may apply to particular activities or circumstances.

8. Access to the Cemetery
A property owner should consider how family members and others with a legitimate interest in the cemetery will be able to access the burial area in the future.

If the property may eventually be transferred, divided, or developed, the owner should consider obtaining legal advice concerning access rights, easements, restrictions, or other mechanisms necessary to preserve reasonable access to the cemetery.

9. Future Transfer of the Property
Property owners are strongly encouraged to disclose the existence and location of a family cemetery to future purchasers and to preserve documentation identifying the cemetery.

The existence of a cemetery on property may have continuing legal and practical implications even after the property changes ownership.

A property owner contemplating the sale, subdivision, development, or transfer of property containing a family cemetery should consult with an attorney and, when appropriate, a licensed surveyor.

10. Establishing a Record for Future Generations
For the protection of the cemetery and future generations, Morrow County recommends that property owners maintain a permanent file containing, to the extent available:
1. A survey or map showing the cemetery boundaries;
2. The location of individual graves;
3. The names of persons buried in the cemetery;
4. Dates of birth and death, when known;
5. Dates of interment, when known;
6. Copies of death or burial records, when appropriate;
7. Photographs of grave markers;
8. Copies of documents recorded with the County Recorder;
9. Information concerning ownership and maintenance of the cemetery; and
10. Contact information for a person responsible for maintaining the family's records.
Maintaining this information can significantly reduce the likelihood that the cemetery will be lost or inadvertently disturbed over time.

11. Role of Morrow County
Morrow County's role concerning a private family cemetery is generally informational unless a particular statute or regulation provides otherwise.

The County may provide residents with information concerning applicable laws and direct residents to appropriate governmental offices or professionals.

The County does not, through these guidelines:
• approve or deny the establishment of a private family cemetery;
• certify that a particular burial site qualifies as a family cemetery;
• issue a permit for a private family cemetery unless specifically authorized by law;
• assume responsibility for maintenance of a private family cemetery;
• determine private property rights;
• determine inheritance or access rights; or
• provide legal advice concerning a particular property or burial.

Questions concerning whether a particular cemetery qualifies as a family cemetery, or concerning property rights, easements, title, access, or other legal issues, should be directed to a private attorney.

12. Recommended Procedure for Property Owners

Although no County approval process is established by these guidelines, a property owner considering a private family cemetery may wish to follow these steps:
Step 1 – Confirm the property.
Confirm that the proposed burial area is located on privately owned property and identify the property owner(s).
Step 2 – Determine whether the proposed cemetery qualifies as a family cemetery.
Review the definition contained in R.C. 4767.02(D).
Step 3 – Consult appropriate professionals.
When appropriate, consult a private attorney, licensed surveyor, funeral professional, or governmental agency concerning the proposed burial.
Step 4 – Identify the burial area.
Consider obtaining a professional survey identifying the proposed cemetery and individual graves.
Step 5 – Preserve the record.
Consider recording appropriate documentation with the Morrow County Recorder and maintaining a permanent family record of the cemetery.
Step 6 – Address future access and ownership issues.
If the property may be sold, transferred, divided, or developed, consult an attorney concerning preservation of the cemetery and access to it.
Step 7 – Complete applicable burial documentation.
Ensure that any documents or requirements applicable to the particular death and burial are satisfied.

13. Important Notice
These guidelines are intended solely as general information for Morrow County residents. They are based upon Ohio law in effect on the date of publication and may not address every circumstance.

These guidelines do not constitute legal advice, do not establish a County permitting requirement, and do not constitute approval of any particular cemetery or burial.

Property owners should obtain legal advice concerning their individual circumstances and should verify current statutory and regulatory requirements before establishing or using a private family cemetery.

Authority and References
• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4767 – Cemetery Registration;
• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 517 – Cemeteries;
• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 1721 – Cemetery Associations and related provisions; and
• Ohio Attorney General Opinion 2007-005, Burial of deceased family member on family-owned property within unincorporated part of township.

Proposed for informational use by Morrow County.

09/21/2026

CASE UPDATES

8/4/26

State v. Joseph DeJesus 2026 CR 0041 (Burglary F2, Criminal Damaging M2): Defendant pled guilty to an amended Count 1, Trespass in a Habitation, F4 after consultation with the victim of the offense.

On April 27, 2026, deputies responded to a residence at Lakeview Apartments on a report that an ex-boyfriend was attempting to enter through a window. The victim, Kamrin Pendelton, reported that Joseph Dejesus III, who no longer resided at the residence and had moved out on March 9, 2026, arrived and demanded entry. When refused, he forcibly opened a window and partially climbed inside the home without privilege, reaching his upper body into the residence.

Sentencing scheduled for October 16, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Case investigated by Deputies Keller, Bever and Kee of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Ashley Edmonds 2024 CR 0143 (Attempted Tampering with Evidence F4, Possession of Co***ne F5): Defendant violated the terms of her intervention in lieu by testing positive for methamphetamines. Lab testing confirmed a negative result for methamphetamine, and as such, the State withdrew its Motion to Terminate Intervention in Lieu. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

8/5/26

State v. Deana Gear 2026 CR 0019 (Theft from Person in Protected Class F5, Theft F5, Misuse of Credit Cards M1): Defendant pled guilty to all counts in the Indictment. Sentencing scheduled for October 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.

On December 23, 2025, Defendant was discovered as a home health worker to use credit cards of her residents for personal use.
Case investigated by Cpt. Cronenwett and Detective Beekman from MGPD as well as Officers Kiefer, Chief Otterbacher and Officer Forman of CPD. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Diane Bailey 2024 CR 0015 (Criminal Nonsupport F5): Defendant admitted to probation violation for testing positive for methamphetamines. Defendant was sentenced to continued community control with an additional condition that she successfully complete the Knox Recovery inpatient program. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

State v. Jerika Underwood 2025 CR 0044 (Attempted Endangering Children M1): Defendant admitted to violating the terms of her probation by testing positive for co***ne on 2 occasions. Case set for disposition hearing on October 20, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

8/7/26

State v. Kenneth Smoot 2026 CR 0007 (Felonious Assault F2): Pursuant to the Plea Agreement, the State remained silent as to sentencing but provided the Court with sentencing factors. Defendant asked for community control. The Court sentenced Defendant to a prison term of 6-9 years in prison. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Davon Trukovich 2026 CR 0057 (Grand Theft of Fi***rm F3, Complicity F3, Theft M1): Defendant pled guilty to all counts contained in the Indictment. The State to defer to the Court for sentencing pursuant to the Plea Agreement.

On May 16, 2026 while at a party at a residence, the Defendant stole fi****ms with a group of individuals along with other items. During the course of the investigation, missing air pods were pinged and located in Galion, Ohio at Defendant’s co-defendant’s residence. The stolen air pods were located. The fi****ms were discovered to have been thrown by the defendants into the Sandusky River in Crawford County.

Case investigated by Deputy Kee and Detective Newsome of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

8/11/26-8/13/26
State v. Jeremy Ashba: Jury Trial with Defendant convicted of F4 GSI. Separate Court Update provided on an earlier date.

8/12/26

State v. Logan Hill 2021 CR 0116 (Improperly Handling Fi***rms in a Motor Vehicle F4): Defendant admitted to violating the terms of his community control by locating numerous bladed weapons and am******on for a fi***rm, illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia and alcohol. Disposition scheduled for October 26, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

8/17/26
State v. Todd Yarger 2026 CR 0020 (Aggravated Robbery F1, Kidnapping F1 X2, Theft F5): Defendant pled guilty to an amended count of Robbery F2 and Theft F5 following consultation with the victims of the offense. Kidnapping counts were dismissed. Case scheduled for sentencing on October 9, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. The State will take no position as to sentencing pursuant to the Plea Agreement.

On February 14, 2026 the Morrow County Sheriff's Office received a call to 911 from someone who had attempted to enter Marvins Market in Johnsville, a part of Morrow County, Ohio. The caller found the establishment closed with a cage behind the glass doors during regular business hours. The caller observed a person inside the establishment, later determined to be Todd Yarger, along with the owners of the establishment, Karen and Randy Marvin. Morrow County Sheriff's Deputy Ebert responded to the location and observed Yarger pointing what appeared to be a gun at someone inside the residence. Backup was sought. The Defendant was contacted by PA system but refused to respond. Eventually, Karen Marvin was allowed to leave the store, and a while later Randy Marvin escaped as well and was holding what appeared to be a fi***rm. This was determined to be a CO2 pistol. SRT teams were summoned from both Knox and Crawford Counties who attempted to get Yarger to leave the establishment. It was determined where Yarger was in the building and entry was made. As entry was made, Yarger left the building through another door and was non-compliant with orders of remaining law enforcement. Less lethal rounds were used to gain compliance. Yarger was determined to be highly intoxicated and had trouble standing. A large sum of money was located in Yarger's jacket pockets as well as an additional item that turned out to be a starter pistol but appeared to be a semi automatic handgun, and a knife was located on his hip. Yarger was wearing a ballistic vest at the time of his arrest. While being transported to the hospital for clearance to go to jail, Yarger spoke with Deputy Ebert and advised that he was denied a sale of alcohol which started the incident. Yarger also advised that the fi****ms were a blank firing gun and a BB gun.

Case investigated by Sheriff Hinton, Chief Deputy Crabtree, Detectives Coulter & Newsome, Sgt. Pearon, Deputies Ebert, Winkler, Baker, Applegate and Kirk of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Also assisting were Cpt. Cronenwett from MGPD and Trooper Ackley from OSP. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

8/18/26

State v. Richard Phillips 2025 CR 0076 (Gross Sexual Imposition F3): Defendant pled guilty to an amended count of Attempted Gross Sexual Imposition, a felony of the fourth degree. This was done at the urging of the victim’s mother.

On June 30, 2025, Detective Coulter was contacted regarding a s*x offense. A.W. was the granddaughter of the Defendant, and her mother caught Defendant rubbing A.W. in a s*xual manner.
The State recommended the full 18 months in prison, while defense asked for community control. The Court sentenced the Defendant to 18 months in prison. Defendant was also made a Tier III s*x offender and will register as such for the remainder of his life. Case investigated by Detective Coulter of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. William Hoffer 2022 CR 0102 (Aggravated Possession of Drugs F5): Defendant admitted to violating the terms of his community control by testing positive and admitting use of methamphetamines.

The State and defense jointly asked for Defendant to be ordered to serve 12 months in prison. The Court found the Defendant to be amenable to community control and ordered the Defendant to complete a CBCF program. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

8/21/26

State v. Michael Green 2025 CR 0087 (Aggravated Possession of Drugs F5, OVI M1): Defendant pled guilty to both charges. On the F5 Aggravated Possession of Drugs, Defendant was granted intervention in lieu of conviction. On the OVI, the Defendant was sentenced to statutory minimums on the OVI.

On April 29, 2025, Trooper Hibner was on I 71 southbound in Morrow County when he observed a Toyota Camry traveling the same direction and weaving in its lane of travel, it crossed the center lane into the right lane without signaling causing Trooper Hibner to initiate his lights and conduct a traffic stop at 12:54 AM. Defendant showed various clues of being intoxicated. Green was asked if he would show the contents of the bag he had on the passenger seat and Green consented and showed Trooper Hibner who observed a clear bag with white powdery substance inside which Green advised was Methamphetamine. Green was arrested for OVI and possession. The substance was tested and found to contain .2676 grams +/- .0060 grams methamphetamine.
Case investigated by Trooper Hibner of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

8/24/26

State v. Aliea Perry 2020 CR 0016 (Possession of Fentanyl F5): Revocation of Intervention in Lieu was filed due to absconding from supervision. Due to Defendant doing well, and her intervention being revoked previously, the State asked for the Defendant to be placed on community control. Court followed that recommendation and sentenced the Defendant to 3 years of community control with 12 months in prison suspended. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Jamar Pearson 2021 CR 0018 (Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs F3, OVI M1): Defendant admitted to violating the terms of his judicial release by failing to appear for office visits as instructed. Case scheduled for disposition on October 27, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

8/25/26

State v. Jessica Shelley 2025 CR 0074 (Theft F5, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle M1): Defendant pled guilty to both charges and was granted intervention in lieu of conviction.

On June 26, 2025 Deputy Dowell responded to a residence in Morrow County, Ohio on a report of a vehicle theft. While responding the Victim, T.H., the mother of the Defendant, Jessica Shelley, advised that Jessica had stole Hinkle's purse and car. The victim's purse contained her wallet with her driver's license and two debit cards. The Huntington Bank Debit Card had already been used at the Duke Gas Station near 61/71 interchange. The next day, the Victim called Morrow County Sheriff's Office and indicated that the Defendant had returned with her car and purse. The Defendant admitted to taking both and not having permission.

Case investigated by Deputy Dowell of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

8/26/2026
State v. Zachary Lester 2024 CR 82 (Probation Violation) and 2025 CR 83 (Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving Minors; Pandering Obscenity Involving Minors; Illegal use of Minor in Nudity Oriented Material F2):

Defendant had probation revoked and remainder of 30 month sentence imposed on 2024 CR 82 case after admission of guilt to 2025 CR 83 case where the Defendant pled guilty to the possession of illegal material depicting minors.

At sentencing for the 2025 CR 83 case, where the Defendant was found to have been uploading and downloading s*xual material involving minors, the State requested a 60-62.5 year sentence be imposed in this matter. The Defendant was sentenced to serve 23-25.5 years in prison which will be served after the sentence imposed on the 2024 CR 82 case.

Following his release from prison, the Defendant will be required to register as a s*x offender for 25 years with a requirement to verify his residence, employment, and any school address every 6 months. The case was investigated by the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office and Prosecuted by County Prosecutor Andrew Wick.

8/28/26

State v. Timothy Rood 2017 CR 0147 (Possession of Drugs M1): Defendant was sentenced to 180 days in the Morrow County Jail. Upon successful completion, will be terminated unsuccessful from community control. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

9/2/26

State v. James Wise 2026 CR 0004 (Aggravated Possession of Drugs F5): State recommended continuing the Defendant on intervention in lieu. Court sentenced Defendant to continued intervention. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler/Assistant Earl Desmond.

9/4/26

State v. Taylor Johnstone 2026 CR 0058 (Burglary F3, Grand Theft of Fi***rms F3 X2, Grand Theft F4, Theft of Drugs F4, Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle M1): Defendant pled guilty to 2 counts of Grand Theft of Fi***rms F3, Grand Theft F4, Theft of Drugs F4.

On June 7, 2026, J.J. and D.D. returned home and discovered numerous items missing from their residence. The missing property included two fi****ms, approximately $25,000 in jewelry, $500 in cash, and approximately $200 worth of medical ma*****na, with a total loss estimated between $26,000 and $32,000. J.J. identified her son, Taylor Johnstone, as someone who knew where the valuables and fi****ms were kept and who had recently sought information about when his parents would return home. A neighbor reported observing Taylor Johnstone and his girlfriend at the residence several times while the victims were away. Surveillance footage from the residence captured a male matching Taylor Johnstone's appearance entering the property at approximately 2:15 a.m. on June 7 and leaving about an hour later. Surveillance footage from a nearby gas station showed the same individual driving Jennifer Johnstone's gray Toyota Rav4, which he did not have permission to use. The Defendant pawned the jewelry in a pawn shop in Columbus.

Case scheduled for sentencing on November 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Case investigated by Officer Ramey and Lt. Ferguson of Cardington Police Department. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

9/9/26
State v. Teddy Girton 2025 CR 0102 (Burglary F2, Theft from a Person in a Protected Class F3): Defendant pled guilty to an amended charge of Attempted Burglary, F3 and Theft from Person in a Protected Class, F3.

The Defendant was a contractor advertising asphalt work. The Defendant approached the victim, an elderly woman, and offered to perform services for $5,000. At some point, the Defendant returned and demanded additional payment of $11,300, making his way into the home without permission. Defendant never completed the work.

The State amended the charge with the permission of the victim upon the Defendant paying full restitution. Said restitution was paid prior to the hearing.

Sentencing scheduled for November 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Case investigated by Detective Newsome of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Richard Williamson 2026 CR 0011 (Violating Protection Order F5): Defendant pled guilty as charged. The Defendant sent harassing messages to his wife at the time who had a civil protection order against him.

Case scheduled for sentencing on January 13, 2027 at 10:00 a.m. The case was investigated by Lt. Ferguson and Chief Otterbacher of the Cardington Police Department as well as Deputy Kirk of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by First Assistant Eddie Bibler.

State v. Benjamin Davis 2025 CR 0045 (Failure to Support Dependents F5 X7): Defendant pled guilty to 3 counts of Failure to Support Dependents. Case scheduled for sentencing on December 4, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.
9/11/26

State v. Shannon Yohey 2021 CR 0047 (Possession of Drugs F5 X 3, OVI M1): Defendant was granted intervention in lieu of conviction as to the 3 counts of Possession. Defendant also pled guilty to OVI. Sentencing on the OVI to be scheduled at a later date.

On 10/3/2020, Defendant was observed committing a marked lanes violation. A traffic stop was initiated. The Defendant’s license was suspended. Indicators of impairment were present, including making a phone call during the stop, baggy eyes, being on the nod, and slow, slurred speech. SFSTs were administered. Defendant was arrested for OVI. A search incident to arrest resulted in several contraband items being located.

Case investigated by Trooper Thurman of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

State v. Zachary Steele 2026 CR 0033 (Strangulation F5, Assault M1): Defendant pled guilty to Assault. Strangulation was dismissed at the request of the Victim who asserted the family had reconciled and were engaging in programming to prevent future discord.

On 3/23/2026, MCSO was dispatched to a residence where an individual was assaulted. Defendant, during an argument, grabbed an individual and picked the victim up and slammed him on the floor.

Sentencing scheduled for October 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Case investigated by Deputy Kee of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Case prosecuted by Assistant Earl Desmond.

9/11/2026

State v. Stephanie Karshner 2026 CR 14 (OVI F4 and Aggravated Possession of Drugs) Defendant entered pleas of guilty to both counts of the indictment in exchange for a recommendation of Community Based Correctional Facility (CBCF) treatment and community controls.

This case originated during a traffic crash call involving a vehicle wedging itself under a flat bed truck resulting in immobilization of both vehicles. The Defendant was located unconscious in her vehicle and resulting blood testing showed positive results for multiple substances. The Defendant at the plea hearing acknowledged a history of addiction and expressed a desire to seek treatment. The CBCF program involves a period of secured treatment that the Defendant will be required to successfully complete as part of community controls.