ACPA CHRISTOPHER R. TUNNELL RECOGNIZES DONATINI AND RAFELD FOR YEARS OF SERVICE

Joe Lyons • February 17, 2023

ASHLAND COUNTY PROSECUTING ATTORNEY CHRISTOPHER R. TUNNELL RECOGNIZES DONATINI AND RAFELD FOR YEARS OF SERVICE

Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell, in a brief presentation at the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office, recognized Michael D. Donatini, First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, and Ruth Rafeld, Ashland County Victims Assistance Coordinator, for their years of dedicated service to the Prosecutor’s Office and to Ashland County. Donatini was recognized for fifteen years of service, and Rafeld for ten years of service.

Michael Donatini is the First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney at the Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. He joined the Prosecutor’s Office in February of 2008. Michael advises officers of the county and its fifteen townships on a wide variety of legal issues related to their duties, including contracts, real estate, zoning, employment, and tax levies. He also represents the county and townships in civil litigation, and has been known to appear in juvenile hearings as well as adult felony matters. As First Assistant, Michael has an array of administrative duties relating to the internal operation of the office.

Tunnell commented, “I’ve been in prosecutors’ offices since 2001 and come across a lot of assistant prosecuting attorneys. I don’t know any that are as dedicated or competent as Michael Donatini. He is a real asset to Ashland County. It’s a pleasure and an honor to work with him every day.”

Donatini stated, “After fifteen years at the prosecutor’s office, it still feels like I’ve fallen into the perfect career. I love being able to serve the community where I was born and raised. Each day still brings new challenges for my mind and something new to learn, so the work never gets boring. Best of all are the relationships I’ve built with law enforcement, local government officers and employees, other attorneys, and especially my coworkers at the prosecutor’s office. It’s really a pleasure to work alongside so many great people who are so dedicated to public service.”

Ruth Rafeld, the Ashland County Victims Assistance Coordinator, joined the office in March of 2013. Mrs. Rafeld ensures that victims of felony crimes in Ashland County receive fair and courteous treatment during the course of prosecution, keeps them informed as to developments in their case, when court hearings will occur, and what to expect at each hearing. Mrs. Rafeld ensures that every victim’s voice is heard by both the court and the prosecuting attorney.

Tunnell commented, “There’s nobody better in the role of helping victims than Ruth Rafeld. She comes to work every day with a renewed spirit of optimism and a drive to advocate on behalf of those who have been affected by crime. She makes a positive impact in Ashland County every day. It is humbling to be able to work with her.”

Rafeld added, “I have considered it an absolute honor to provide support for those weathering a storm. I am grateful to be working in a community like Ashland, where a victim-centered approach is embraced. I look forward to the coming years at the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office.”