Donald Zehner, a dedicated and experienced law enforcement officer, is running for the position of Richland County Sheriff. With his impressive 30-year career in the Sheriff’s Office, Zehner is poised to promote Improvement through Integration and bring positive change to the department. His vision includes enhancing mental health services for inmates, creating a Behavior Response Team, and adding an explosive detection dog to the existing K-9 program. Let’s explore into these initiatives and see the impact they can have on Richland County.
Candidate Donald Zehner
The Vision for Improvement
Enhancing Mental Health Services
One of the key aspects of Donald Zehner’s vision is to provide better mental health services for inmates. By adding to the medical and substance abuse screening during the book-in process, potential at-risk inmates can be identified. This proactive approach will help address their needs and reduce the risk of further issues within the correctional system. Through collaboration with local agencies and organizations, Zehner aims to ensure that inmates receive the necessary support and treatment.
Creating a Behavior Response Team (BRT)
In order to address the root causes of problematic behavior among individuals in contact with the Sheriff’s Office, Zehner proposes the creation of a Behavior Response Team. This team will consist of representatives from various agencies and will work in collaboration with the community to identify and respond to mental health illnesses, PTSD, and substance abuse issues. By conducting outreach follow-ups and providing necessary services, the BRT aims to break the cycle of incarceration and promote rehabilitation.
Adding an Explosive Detection Canine to the K-9 Program
To bolster the capabilities of local law enforcement agencies, Donald Zehner plans to add an explosive detection dog to the existing K-9 program. This addition will provide the ability to detect both gunpowder and explosive materials, ensuring greater safety for the community. By working with schools and other organizations, the canine team can help prevent gun violence and enhance security in various facilities. Additionally, the team will assist in evidence recovery and the investigation of crimes involving firearms.
Why Donald Zehner is the Right Candidate
With over three decades of experience in the Sheriff’s Office, Donald Zehner brings a comprehensive understanding of law enforcement to the table. His rise through the ranks, from being a Corrections Officer to Captain of Road Patrol Deputies, reflects his dedication and expertise. Holding a valid Ohio Peace Officer Commission and an Associate Degree in Fish and Wildlife Management, Zehner possesses the necessary qualifications to lead as Richland County Sheriff.
Donald Zehner’s campaign to become the next Sheriff of Richland County offers a refreshing vision for improvement. By prioritizing mental health services for inmates, creating a Behavior Response Team, and adding an explosive detection dog to the K-9 program, Zehner aims to enhance community safety and create a more integrated approach to law enforcement. With his extensive experience and commitment to service, Donald Zehner is poised to make a positive impact as Richland County Sheriff.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted released the following statements after Chief Judge Algenon L. Marbley, the United States District Judge for the Southern District of Ohio, Eastern Division, granted tech lobbying group NetChoice’s request to temporarily stop the Social Media Parental Notification Act from being enforced beginning January 15 while their request for a preliminary injunction is pending. NetChoice represents Meta and other social media giants.
“I supported the Social Media Parental Notification Act because parents should have a role in their children’s social media use,” said Governor DeWine. “The negative effects that social media sites and apps have on our children’s mental health have been well documented, and this law was one way to empower parents to have a role in their kids’ digital lives. I am disappointed in this injunction and hope it will be lifted as the case further proceeds so these important protections for children can take effect.”
“I’m very disappointed in today’s ruling,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “The big-tech companies behind this lawsuit were included in the legislative process to make sure the law was clear and easy to implement, but now they claim the law is unclear. They were disingenuous participants in the process and have no interest in protecting children.”
The Social Media Parental Notification Act requires certain online companies to obtain verifiable parental consent to contractual terms of service before permitting kids under the age of 16 to use their platforms. This proposal was championed by Lt. Governor Husted, passed by the General Assembly, and signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine as part of the 2023-24 executive budget and was to take effect on January 15, 2024.
The law also includes a requirement for companies to provide parents with their privacy guidelines to show them what will be censored or moderated content on their child’s profile.
About the Social Media Parental Notification Act:
Companies must:
Create a method to determine whether the user is a child under the age of 16.
Obtain verifiable parental or legal guardian consent.
Send written confirmation of the consent to the parent or legal guardian.
If the user indicates that they are under the age of 16, the following methods can be used for verification:
Sign a digital form consenting to the terms of service.
Use a credit card, debit card, or other online payment system.
Call a toll-free telephone number.
Connect to trained personnel via video-conference.
Check a form of government-issued identification.
Who this includes:
Social media and online gaming/activities companies accessed by children
Who this does NOT include:
E-commerce: Online shopping
Media outlets
If a parent or legal guardian fails or refuses to consent to the terms of service, the company must deny access or use of the online website, online service, online product, or online feature by the child. In cases in which operators fail to provide notification or a parent wishes to terminate a child’s access, parents should contact the website operator who then has 30 days to terminate the child’s access. If parents are unsuccessful in the account being deleted, they are encouraged to file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at OhioProtects.org.
In a significant turn of events, Aaron Drushell, 34, a former Ashland City Firefighter, changed his plea in a high-profile rape case. Drushell’s, decision comes after a plea agreement with the state, in the wake of a mistrial, on July, 13, 2023, where the jury was unable to reach a verdict from the charges in the indictment on March 11, 2022.
The indictment contained five counts of Rape, all classified as 1st Degree Felonies. Additionally, he faced one charge of Kidnapping, a 1st Degree Felony, Tampering with Evidence, a 3rd Degree Felony, and Gross Sexual Imposition, a 4th Degree Felony.
Drushell, who had been on unpaid leave with the Ashland City Fire Department, chose to voluntarily resign in August 2023.
The change of plea hearing was conducted remotely using Zoom, with Judge David R. Stimpert presiding over the case.
The hearing began with Senior Assistant with the Attorney General Office, Denise Salerno, who stated that Drushell had decided to withdraw his previous plea of not guilty, and instead plead guilty to count 7 of the indictment, which involves tampering with evidence. This charge falls under revised code sections 2921.12(A)(1) and 2921.12(B) and is categorized as a low-tier felony of the third degree. Salerno also highlighted the potential penalties, which include a prison term of up to 36 months, a maximum fine of $10,000, and the possibility of discretionary post-release control for two years.
In exchange for Drushell’s change of plea to count 7, the state has agreed to dismiss all other charges against him. This significant development means that Drushell will only face consequences for the tampering with evidence charge. Salerno emphasized that the change of plea was not induced by any threats or promises. It is clear that Drushell is entering into this plea knowingly, voluntarily, and intelligently, said Salerno.
Attorney James Mayer, III, representing Drushell, confirmed the understanding of the charge being pleaded to, and acknowledged the dismissal of the remaining counts. Mayer also revealed that the state has agreed to remain silent regarding any sentencing recommendations related to incarceration. This stipulation ensures that no additional factors will influence the sentencing process.
Criminal sentencing in this case has been scheduled for February 26, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the Common Pleas Court of Ashland County. This crucial event will determine the exact consequences Drushell will face as a result of his plea change. The sentencing will take into account the severity of the tampering with evidence charge and any other relevant factors that may influence the judge’s decision.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Derrick Taylor. Taylor is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of felonious assault. Harris, 45, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall. Harris has ties to the cities of Ashland, Baltic, and Galion.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Devin Cramer. Cramer is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a parole violation on the original charge of aggravated burglary with firearm spec. Cramer, 27, is described as a white male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall. Cramer has ties to the city of Mansfield
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Mark Margan. Morgan is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for strangulation. Morgan, 57, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Morgan has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Quinness Howell. Howell is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office for trafficking in drugs. Howell, 19, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 8 inches tall. Howell has ties to the city of Mansfield.
If you have any information in reference to Derrick Taylor, Devin Cramer, Mark Morgan, or Quiness Howell, please contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or Text keyword WANTED and tip to 847411 (tip411). Tipsters can remain anonymous and reward money is available.
UPDATE: The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has positively identified the victim in this case through fingerprint analysis. The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Darcy Hooper of South Fulton, Tennessee.
Investigation into this matter is on-going.
At 4:30pm on January 5. 2024, the Marion County Central Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a citizen reporting that a possible deceased female was located in a drainage ditch in the 3000 block of Harding Highway East in Marion County.
Upon the arrival of deputies from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, it was confirmed that the female was deceased and was laying, partially submerged, in a drainage ditch. The remains were partially decomposed and could not be immediately identified.
The victim’s body will be sent to the Lucas County Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy to determine the cause of death and assistance with her identification.
Sheriff Bayles would like to thank Ohio BCI, the First Consolidated Fire Department, the Marion County Coroner’s Office and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance in this case.
Investigation is ongoing and anyone with any information pertaining to this matter may contact Captain Ken Rittenour of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 740-382-8244.
Message from Richland County Sheriff Candidate Matt Mayer
“I want to be your Republican nominee for Richland County Sheriff, and I would appreciate your vote on March 19, 2024. As a lifelong resident of Richland County and a lifelong member of St. Mary’s parish, I am deeply connected to this community. Growing up in Mifflin township in a family of 12, who were all public servants, I learned the importance of serving and protecting our community from a young age.
Matt Mayer
I have been married for 39 years to my high school sweetheart Beverly, and together we have three children and four grandchildren. Now, I am ready to dedicate my experience, education, and expertise to serving as the Sheriff of Richland County.”
Matt Mayer Education and History
Matt Mayer has an impressive educational background and extensive experience in law enforcement. He is a graduate of Madison High School, The Ohio State University, and the Ohio State Patrol Basic Police Academy. Throughout his career, he has accumulated thousands of hours of police training, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively serve and protect the community.
Mayer has 36 years of experience as a peace officer, with 28 ½ of those years spent at the Richland County Sheriff’s Office. He has also worked with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District Police, also known as Ranger, and spent 6 years with the Richland County Court Services. Currently, he serves as a Northern Ohio region Ranger supervisor under the Chief of MWCD police.
Matt Mayer Experience
Throughout his career, Matt Mayer has held various roles within law enforcement, allowing him to gain extensive experience and expertise in different areas. He has worked as a Dispatcher, Correction Officer, Major Crimes Supervisor, Patrol Supervisor, and Crime Lab/Evidence Collection and Processing. He has assisted in the administration of MWCD Rangers directly under the Chief.
Matt Mike and Steve at the Polar Bear Plunge
Mayer’s experience extends to working on a wide range of cases, including homicides, violent crimes, rape, kidnapping, robbery, sex crimes, drug crimes, burglaries, theft, fraud, crimes against the elderly, and child abuse. He has been involved in hundreds of search warrants, formed task forces to pursue organized and habitual criminals, and has recovered thousands of stolen items, returning them to their rightful owners.
Focal Points
As the Sheriff of Richland County, Matt Mayer intends to focus on several key areas to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. His focal points include:
Administration: Mayer aims to administer the deputies and other employees in a fair and just manner. He believes in providing them with the necessary resources, education, and training to effectively protect the community against violent and property crimes.
School Safety: Mayer is committed to protecting our schools and ensuring a safe learning environment for students. He understands the importance of safeguarding our children’s future and will work tirelessly to address any safety concerns within schools.
Protection of the Elderly and Youth: Mayer recognizes the vulnerability of the elderly and youth population. He is dedicated to protecting them against abuse, neglect, and fraud, striving to create a safe environment for these individuals to thrive and flourish.
Drug Crimes and Human Trafficking: Mayer acknowledges the detrimental impact of drug crimes and human trafficking on communities. He will prioritize combating these crimes and work diligently to dismantle the networks involved in these illicit activities.
Administrative Tasks
As the Sheriff of Richland County, Matt Mayer will handle numerous administrative tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of the sheriff’s office. These tasks include:
Jail Management: Mayer will address concerns such as correction officer turnover and deaths in the jail. He aims to implement effective strategies to improve jail operations and ensure the safety and well-being of all inmates.
Special Units: Mayer will maintain and oversee various special units within the sheriff’s office, such as METRICH, Fugitive Task Force, Crime Lab, K-9, Drones, Dive team (search and rescue-water rescue), SWAT, Major Crimes, and Criminal Patrol. He recognizes the importance of these units in addressing different aspects of crime and ensuring a comprehensive approach to law enforcement.
Budget Management: Mayer will be responsible for managing the budget revenue and expenditures of the sheriff’s office. This involves making projections, estimating budgets, and working closely with Commissioners and the Auditor to ensure efficient allocation of funds, fees, grants, and payroll. He will ensure that the budget aligns with the needs of the sheriff’s office and the community.
Policy and Procedure Development: Mayer will assess the sheriff’s office’s functions and operations. He plans to conduct studies and research to formulate effective policies and procedures that will benefit employees and the public. Training will be provided to ensure the successful implementation of these policies, reducing criminal and civil actions as well as injuries to the sheriff’s office employees and the public.
Conclusion
Matt Mayer brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to the role of Richland County Sheriff. His lifelong commitment to public service, combined with his strong educational background and extensive law enforcement experience, make him a highly qualified candidate for the position. If elected, Mayer promises to prioritize the safety and well-being of the community, working diligently to address key areas such as school safety, protection of the elderly and youth, and combating drug crimes and human trafficking. With Matt Mayer as the Richland County Sheriff, the community can feel confident in their safety and security.
At 4:30pm on January 5. 2024, the Marion County Central Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a citizen reporting that a possible deceased female was located in a drainage ditch in the 3000 block of Harding Highway East in Marion County.
Upon the arrival of deputies from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, it was confirmed that the female was deceased and was laying, partially submerged, in a drainage ditch. The remains were partially decomposed and could not be immediately identified.
The victim’s body will be sent to the Lucas County Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy to determine the cause of death and assistance with her identification.
Sheriff Bayles would like to thank Ohio BCI, the First Consolidated Fire Department, the Marion County Coroner’s Office and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance in this case.
Investigation is ongoing and anyone with any information pertaining to this matter may contact Captain Ken Rittenour of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 740-382-8244.
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Law was to go into effect January 15, 2024
Joe Lyons •
January 9, 2024
Donald Zehner, a dedicated and experienced law enforcement officer, is running for the position of Richland County Sheriff. With his impressive 30-year career in the Sheriff’s Office, Zehner is poised to promote Improvement through Integration and bring positive change to the department. His vision includes enhancing mental health services for inmates, creating a Behavior Response Team, and adding an explosive detection dog to the existing K-9 program. Let’s explore into these initiatives and see the impact they can have on Richland County.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Derrick Taylor. Taylor is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of felonious assault. Harris, 45, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall. Harris has ties to the cities of Ashland, Baltic, and Galion.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Devin Cramer. Cramer is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a parole violation on the original charge of aggravated burglary with firearm spec. Cramer, 27, is described as a white male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall. Cramer has ties to the city of Mansfield
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Mark Margan. Morgan is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for strangulation. Morgan, 57, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Morgan has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Quinness Howell. Howell is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office for trafficking in drugs. Howell, 19, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 8 inches tall. Howell has ties to the city of Mansfield.
UPDATE: The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has positively identified the victim in this case through fingerprint analysis. The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Darcy Hooper of South Fulton, Tennessee.
Message from Richland County Sheriff Candidate Matt Mayer
Throughout his career, Matt Mayer has held various roles within law enforcement, allowing him to gain extensive experience and expertise in different areas. He has worked as a Dispatcher, Correction Officer, Major Crimes Supervisor, Patrol Supervisor, and Crime Lab/Evidence Collection and Processing. He has assisted in the administration of MWCD Rangers directly under the Chief.
Matt Mayer brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to the role of Richland County Sheriff. His lifelong commitment to public service, combined with his strong educational background and extensive law enforcement experience, make him a highly qualified candidate for the position. If elected, Mayer promises to prioritize the safety and well-being of the community, working diligently to address key areas such as school safety, protection of the elderly and youth, and combating drug crimes and human trafficking. With Matt Mayer as the Richland County Sheriff, the community can feel confident in their safety and security.
At 4:30pm on January 5. 2024, the Marion County Central Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a citizen reporting that a possible deceased female was located in a drainage ditch in the 3000 block of Harding Highway East in Marion County.