CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Following a preliminary hearing on June 21st, Ross County Prosecutor Jeffrey Marks has indicated, according to court records, his intention to seek a grand jury indictment against Jayce Wingo, one of four individuals arrested during a recent altercation with Chillicothe police that has ignited a firestorm of controversy. The incident, captured on body camera and widely shared online, has reignited local discussions about police conduct and racism in policing.
Wingo, along with OJ Tyrone Netter, Quinlan Netter, and James Wingo, were arrested by police responding to a neighbor dispute. While the Netters and James Wingo face charges of resisting arrest and obstruction, Jayce Wingo faces more serious felony charges of assault on a police officer and strangulation.
The body camera footage depicts a scene where Wingo intervenes in a situation involving his sister. Officers can be seen shoving the teen to the ground when Wingo intervenes, attempting to push officers away from her. Wingo was then violently taken to the ground. While being restrained by multiple officers and deputies, Officer Jeremy Conley can be seen striking Wingo in the head multiple times while he is on the ground. Legal experts have echoed these concerns, questioning the use of force and suggesting alternative tactics.
This incident is just the latest chapter in a history of police conduct critiques within the region. Residents in Ross and Pickaway County have long grappled with issues of racial justice and accountability when it comes to law enforcement. Social media and local advocacy groups have been instrumental in mobilizing support for the Wingo family and amplifying calls for transparency from authorities, as well as organizing protests.
Adding fuel to the fire is a separate incident last year involving a K-9 unit deployed by the Circleville police. A man sustained serious injuries after being mauled by a police canine. That incident went international with calls for justice and reform echoing from the White House.
As the Wingo case progresses towards a potential indictment, community tensions remain high. Protests demanding police reform and a thorough investigation are reportedly being planned. The Chillicothe Police Department maintains its actions were necessary for public safety and claims the citizens were the aggressors, but faces renewed pressure for systemic change.