The Guardian has exclusively confirmed that a Ross County deputy has been given the option to resign after a criminal investigation into allegations that he was stealing money intended for drug informants.
Law enforcement sources confirm to the Guardian that the deputy was assigned to the U.S. 23 pipeline drug task force by the Ross County Sheriff’s office and has worked for the county for several years.
The two sources with direct knowledge of the investigation spoke to the Guardian on conditions of anonymity in fear of retaliation from their employer.
The deputy is accused of stealing “FOJ funds” (furtherance of justice money, an account set aside to pay for things not itemized in the annual budget) that was intended to be used to pay drug informants, when in actuality, the deputy is accused of pocketing the money.
It was not immediately released to the Guardian how the alleged scheme was uncovered or how long it had been taking place.
The Sheriff has requested the assistance of Ohio BCI to investigate the alleged criminal wrongdoing. Steve Irwin, a spokesperson for BCI declined to comment on the investigation when asked Thursday.
The deputy was given the option to resign or be fired late last week, according to records. He chose to resign.
Calls seeking comment from Ross County Sheriff George Lavendar and U.S. 23 Major Crimes Task Force commander Jon Long were not immediately returned.
According to his secretary, Ross County Prosecutor Jeffrey Marks was unavailable for comment when phoned on Thursday. Representatives for his office said he was busy preparing for grand jury that convenes tomorrow.
To stay in line with the Guardian’s ethics (ChillicotheGuardian.com/ethics) and because criminal charges have not been formally filed at this time, the Guardian is not naming the deputy involved, however, it is expected the case will be presented to the Ross County Grand Jury on Friday.