Ashland County Resident Faces Fifty-Count Indictment for Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor

Joe Lyons • February 17, 2024

Leo Timothy Hoffman Jr., 43, a Ashland County resident, finds himself in the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Jail after a grand jury handed down a fifty-count indictment for Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person.

Hoffman is no stranger to Law Enforcement, having been charged and convicted in November 2021 for Pandering Obscenity Involving a Minor or Impaired Person, a felony of the 4th degree, which resulted in him being designated as a Tier II Sex Offender. Represented by Attorney R. Rolf Whitney during his previous case, Hoffman was sentenced to seven months of incarceration.

According to court records, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Detective Crites initiated an investigation following reports of Hoffman possessing child pornography. Hoffman’s parole officer, Chad Campbell, provided Detective Crites with Hoffman’s tablet and phone, which were subsequently analyzed. Detective Crites documented the presence of child pornography on these devices, leading to the filing of fifty counts against Hoffman.

The charges, allege that Hoffman knowingly solicited, received, purchased, exchanged, possessed, or controlled material depicting minors engaging in sexual activity, masturbation, or bestiality. These actions, as outlined in Section 2907.322(A)(5), 2907.322(C) of the Ohio Revised Code, constitute a felony of the fourth degree. The indictment specifies that the offenses occurred on or about January 16, 2023, within Ashland County, Ohio.

With a bond set at $25,000.00, Hoffman faces the prospect of a lengthy prison sentence. A trial date has been scheduled for May 7, 2024, at 08:30 AM, Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors continue to prioritize investigations and prosecutions aimed at safeguarding vulnerable individuals from harm.