Homrighausen wants nepotism charges thrown out
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (June 13, 2022) – Attorneys for Richard Homrighausen have asked a judge to dismiss two of the 15 criminal counts against the suspended Dover mayor.
They have to do with Homrighausen’s roles in hiring his son to a city job in 2013 and in a grievance his son filed against the city in 2016.
The Ohio Auditor’s Office says Homrighausen violated state nepotism laws.
Homrighausen’s attorneys say his involvement was minimal, and city officials, including Law Director Doug O’Meara, have known about it for years.
They say by staying silent, O’Meara “gave his blessing to the hiring of the defendant’s son.” They say to prosecute Homrighausen now would violate his due process.
A hearing is scheduled for July 28.
The most serious count among the 15 against Homrighausen is theft in office, a third-degree felony.
The State Auditor’s Office alleges Homrighausen pocketed $9,295 in fees from weddings he performed.
A conviction would disqualify him from public office and access to government pension.
Homrighausen has pleaded not guilty to all counts. The state has suspended him until the case is resolved.
A jury trial is scheduled for September.
Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court Judge Elizabeth Thomakos is overseeing the case.