PIKE COUNTY, Ohio — Former Pike County Sheriff’s Office deputy Jeremy C. Mooney’s sentencing, scheduled for Thursday, has been postponed to March 14, following a request from his legal team. The decision to delay the sentencing came amidst strong objection from the district attorney, citing Mooney as a risk to society and highlighting the severity of his offenses
Mooney, 49, was found guilty in a federal court trial after a two-day jury trial in Columbus on charges related to civil rights violations stemming from his use of excessive force during his employment with the sheriff’s office. The trial centered around an incident on November 18, 2019, where Mooney and another deputy, William Stansberry, Jr., were involved in violating the constitutional rights of Thomas Friend, a 27-year-old inmate at the Pike County Sheriff’s Office.
Mooney is recommended to serve up to 15 years in prison, according to a pre-sentencing report.
According to the indictment, Mooney deployed pepper spray and physically assaulted Friend, who was restrained and not posing a threat at the time. The incident, captured on video footage, showed Mooney’s attacks on Friend while he was restrained in a chair, resulting in bodily injury to the victim.
Stansberry, who held a supervisory position within the sheriff’s office, was charged with failing to intervene and prevent Mooney’s use of unreasonable force. Despite having the opportunity to intervene, Stansberry allegedly did not take any action to stop the excessive force being used against Friend.
Former Sheriff Jim Nelson revealed that the altercation escalated from Friend’s disorderly conduct and spitting on fellow inmates, leading to Friend being restrained. The incident ultimately led to Mooney’s resignation.
In response to the delay in sentencing, the district attorney strongly opposed the decision, asserting Mooney’s danger to the community. The prosecution cited Mooney’s violent crimes against a restrained and vulnerable victim, his use of a dangerous weapon, and his repeated lies during trial proceedings. The prosecution further emphasized the seriousness of Mooney’s offenses, highlighting the recommended guidelines range of 135 to 168 months of imprisonment.
Despite the push for sentencing, Mooney’s legal team succeeded in rescheduling the hearing to March 14.
