Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Ohio Sheriff Charged With Theft Denies Wrongdoing

A southeast Ohio sheriff has been indicted on 25 counts, including felony charges of theft in office, tampering with records and engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity. The allegations against Patrick Kelly date as far back as 2008, the year he was first elected sheriff in Athens County. Friday's indictment includes accusations that Kelly improperly used public funds to buy meals and personal apparel and that members of his campaign committees didn't properly handle and report donations.
The 63-year-old Kelly denies criminal wrongdoing by him or his staff. The Democrat in a statement accuses Republican Attorney General Mike DeWine, who launched the investigation, of a political agenda. DeWine says his staff investigated at the request of local authorities. Kelly's arraignment is scheduled Feb. 10.

Related Content