Documents seized from Dover City Hall as state agency investigates Homrighausen

DOVER (WJER) (Jan. 4, 2022) – Authorities executed a search warrant at city hall Monday, focusing on the contents of a two-drawer wooden cabinet behind the desk of former administrative assistant Eva Newsome.

It was filed by State Auditor Keith Faber’s office represented by Fraud Investigator Kevin Monnolly and signed by Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court Judge Mike Ernest. The warrant asks for “miscellaneous papers, notes, emails, wedding receipts, spreadsheets, documents of thefts and the misappropriation of funds” along with any evidence pertaining to the violation of state laws. It references three chapters of the Ohio Revised Code titled “Theft and Fraud,” “Offenses Against Justice and Public Administration” and “Conspiracy, Attempt, and Complicity; Weapons Control; Corrupt Activity.” Council President Shane Gunnoe says he does not know what specifically the state auditor was looking for.

“It’s very concerning to me but, you know, state authorities they’re doing what they have to do kind of on a separate, parallel track from anything city council is doing, and I hope that they fully investigate every matter and come to a proper conclusion. The people of Dover deserve that.” Council has been asking for Homrighausen’s resignation since accusing him of misconduct following an investigation early last year. The State Auditor’s Office has confirmed it is investigating they mayor but won’t disclose details. Homrighausen says he won’t comment on an ongoing investigation and he doesn’t know what was in the cabinet. Homrighausen fired Newsome on Dec. 21st. Council members say it was retaliatory for her participation in the investigations.

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