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Monday 8am - 4:30pm Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm Thursday 8am - 4:30pm Friday 8am - 4:30pm

http://athenscountyprosecutor.org/

Athens County Prosecutor, Athens, OH (2026)

04/13/2026

The Athens County Prosecutor’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Paul C. “Smoke” Barrett, who passed away on April 9, 2026.

Paul “Smoke” Barrett was a pillar of the community, an accomplished athlete, public servant, coach, and mentor. Through his years of service to Trimble Township, his dedication to coaching and teaching, and his lifelong commitment to his family and community, he made a lasting impact on those around him.

Out of respect and in support of our colleague and their family, our office will be closed on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM so that staff may attend his memorial service.

We appreciate your understanding during this time.

04/03/2026

April 3, 2026

ATHENS, Ohio- Executive Director of Athens County Job and Family Services Jean Demosky Arrested for THEFT IN OFFICE, MATTER REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION

On April 3, 2026, Executive Director of Athens County Job and Family Services, Jean Demosky, was charged and arrested on one count of Theft in Office, a felony of the third degree.

The investigation was conducted by the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office with the cooperation of Athens County Sheriff Rodney Smith’s Office, Auditor Jill Davidson’s Office, information provided by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Service audit and information provided by 2025 Athens County audit team.

The case remains under investigation and additional charges are possible.

Demosky is accused of creating a shill nonprofit using county resources, staff, buildings, equipment and funding to provide goods to ineligible recipients including her own family member. The goods and services were not paid in full by the nonprofit. Demosky served as the president of the nonprofit and executive director of Athens County Job and Family Services at the same time. The outstanding bill from ODJFS for the nonprofit’s unpaid debt is in excess of $50,000.00 and the expense of county staffing doing work for the nonprofit is in excess of $1,000,000.00.

Athens County Prosecutor, Keller Blackburn stated, “he is grateful for the courage of the hardworking employees of Athens County Job and Family Services for coming forward and allowing the investigation to reach today’s arrest. These allegations have put the taxpayers of Athens County on the hook for over a $1,000,000.00 for the fraud led at the direction of Demosky.”

Demosky is scheduled to be arraigned at 1:30 PM Friday April 3, 2026, in front of Judge George P. McCarthy.

03/24/2026

Yesterday, law enforcement officers from the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office, Athens County Sheriff’s Office, and Ohio University Police Department had the opportunity to visit our local Girl Scouts for “Respect Authority Day.”

It was a meaningful opportunity to connect with these young leaders, answer their questions, and share the importance of trust, safety, and community.

As Prosecutor Keller Blackburn shared,
“Taking the time to connect with young people like this helps build trust and understanding — and that’s the foundation of a strong community.”

Thank you to the Girl Scouts for welcoming us and reminding us why we do what we do every day.

02/26/2026

ACPO PRESS RELEASE

From: Keller J. Blackburn, Athens County Prosecuting Attorney

Date: March 16, 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UPDATED NOTICE OF SALE
DISPOSAL OF FORFEITED VEHICLES AND PROPERTY

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 2981.04 the following forfeited property will be disposed of at a silent auction on March 16, 2026, AT 10:00 A.M until 11:00 A.M. at the Athens County Courthouse, First Floor Rotunda, Athens, OH 45701; forfeited vehicles will be disposed of at a live auction on the same day beginning at 10:40 a.m.:

TERMS OF SALE: All vehicles, real estate and other property listed above vehicles shall be sold under the doctrine of caveat emptor, in as is condition and without appraisal or warranty, at silent auction, with minimum bids as follows:

1. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
2. 2022 Honda Passport
3. Hot tub MARQUIS
4. Nutri Bullet Rx 10 piece set
5. Nutri Bullet Rx 10 piece set
6. HP Deskjet 3510
7. HP Photosmart 5510
8. Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Generation)
9. Amazon Echo (2nd Generation)
10. Vinci Express Cold Brew Coffee Brewer
11. Dyson Air wrap complete
12. Real Work Lighting LED Solar Motion Light
13. Keurig K-mini plus matte black
14. Keurig K-mini plus matte black
15. Keurig My K cup
16. Dyson V6 Absolute EX-TV Vacuum
17. Dyson V6 Vacuum EX-TV Vacuum
18. Veggie Bullet 12 piece set
19. Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer
20. Pod Rocker Chair
21. Pod Rocker Chair
22. Apple Watch 38MM 7000 series A1553
23. Apple Watch Fashion Watchband
24. TOP4CUS Watch Sport Band
25. TOP4CUS Watch Sport Band
26. Apple Watch Sport Band 40MM Pine Green
27. Secbolt watch band
28. Speidel watch band
29. WFEAGL watch band
30. Cervical Vertebra massager
31. Cervical Vertebra massager
32. Cervical Vertebra massager
33. Cervical Vertebra massager

All items listed above shall be sold to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check, payable at the time of sale. Bids on items for the silent auction will be submitted in writing during the auction and the highest bidder at the end of the auction shall be awarded the specific item. Vehicles will be available for inspection two hours prior to the sale at 9009 Sand Ridge Rd., Millfield, Ohio 45761. Vehicles are to be removed within ten (10) days of the purchase or storage fees will be assessed. Arrangements for entrance to the storage lot to remove vehicles other than on the day of sale must be made through the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

02/23/2026

Indictment of Anthony Edward Bokar
Athens, Ohio – On February 12, 2026, Anthony Edward Bokar, 21, of Columbus, was arrested, at Pickerington Central High School by Athens County Sheriff Deputies with the assistance of the Pickerington Police Department, on charges related to Tampering with Evidence, Unlawful Sexual Conduct of a Minor, and Corruption of Another with Drugs for alleged conduct that took place in Nelsonville, Ohio.
At his initial appearance the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office informed the court that reports of additional victims existed and were being investigated by the Prosecutor’s office and Sheriff’s office.
On Monday February 23, 2026, Anthony was indicted by the Athens County Grand Jury for:
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor (F4)
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor (F4)
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor (F4)
Corrupting Another with Drugs (F4)
Tampering with Evidence (F3)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Illegal Use of Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)
Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (F2)

Bokar was arraigned on Monday February 23, 2026, and his $500,000.00 bond was continued. He is scheduled for a Jury Trial on May 19, 2026.

Law enforcement has identified multiple victims in several Ohio Counties including Athens, Franklin, and Coshocton County. The case remains under investigation. Anyone who may have information please contact the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office at 740-592-3208

This case was investigated by the Athens County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office.

01/15/2026

Sagastume Found Guilty of R**e Following Four-Day Jury Trial

Athens, Ohio – Following a four-day jury trial, Andres Sagastume, 23, of Chantilly, Virginia, was found guilty of R**e, a felony of the first degree.

The verdict was returned following three days of evidence and one day of deliberation on January 9, 2026.

Sagastume was a football player from West Virginia State University visiting Athens Saturday August 24, 2024, sexually assaulted an Ohio University student he had previously met, in her apartment in the early morning hours of August 25, 2024.

The state called 10 witnesses in the case-in-chief, followed by two defense witnesses, including the Defendant, and the state followed with one rebuttal witness.

This case was investigated by the Athens City Police Department, with assistance from the Kanawha County, WV Sheriff’s Department and the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office Secret Service. The State was represented by Chief Assistant Prosecutor Liz Pepper and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Sanderson and the defendant by Sam Shamansky.

Sagastume is scheduled to be sentenced on January 20, 2026 at 1:30 PM, by Judge Patrick Lang.

10/29/2025

Athens County Empowerment (A.C.E.) Program Participants Continue Community Support Through Clean-Up and Beautification Projects

Over the past several months, participants in Keller J. Blackburn’s Athens County Empowerment (A.C.E.) Program have remained active in providing vital community service throughout Athens County. From township and village clean-ups to cemetery maintenance and public space improvements, A.C.E. diversion participants have made meaningful contributions across the county.

This summer and fall, A.C.E. participants partnered with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), the Athens County Commissioners’ Office, and several townships and local organizations to complete a wide range of beautification and cleanup projects. Participants worked alongside Keith Tabler from ACSO on multiple roadside trash cleanups, helping remove litter and improve the appearance and safety of county roadways. They also assisted the Commissioners’ Office with brush removal, w**d eating, and trash pickup along the county bike path—ensuring a cleaner, more accessible space for local residents.

A.C.E. diversioners played an important role in community events throughout the region, contributing hundreds of hours of service during the Athens County Fair, the Parade of the Hills, and the Old Settlers Reunion in Jacksonville. Participants helped vendors set up, cleaned event areas, and supported organizers before, during, and after the festivities. Event leaders, including Scott Rawlins and Joann Rockhold, expressed their gratitude for the A.C.E. program’s continued involvement and reliable support.

The program also contributed to cemetery maintenance in Trimble Township, where participants w**ded and cleaned several sites to ensure they were well cared for and presentable. Township representative Dusty Murphy thanked the program for assisting with the upkeep of these important community spaces.

In total, A.C.E. participants dedicated hundreds of hours of community service across Athens County in recent months. Their hard work has not only enhanced local environments but has also strengthened community pride and connection.

The Athens County Empowerment (A.C.E.) Program continues to demonstrate how positive engagement and community service can create meaningful change. We are proud of our participants and thankful to all community partners who make these projects possible. Together, we’re keeping Athens County clean, connected, and empowered.

Athens County Prosecutor Keller J. Blackburn said, “The A.C.E. Program continues to show the power of service in creating lasting impact. Each project not only improves our communities but also helps participants take meaningful steps toward positive growth and responsibility. I’m proud of their continued commitment to making Athens County a better place for everyone.”

If your community could benefit from A.C.E. Program services, please contact Jonah McClelland at the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office at 740-592-3208.

10/16/2025

Holdren Sentenced to Maximum Prison Term for Aggravated Possession of Drugs ---

Athens, Ohio – On October 15, 2025, Athens County Common Pleas Judge Patrick Lang sentenced Matthew Holdren to the maximum sentence of 36 months in prison following his conviction for Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a felony of the third degree.

Holdren was convicted after a two-day jury trial. The charges stem from a November 2024 incident at the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail. On November 12, 2024, Holdren was booked into the jail and underwent a body scan, which raised concerns of possible contraband. He was immediately placed on dry cell status. Two days later, on November 14, a strip search revealed a plastic bag which was removed from Holdren’s re**um. That bag contained a crystal-like substance. Additionally, a toilet paper roll fell out of Holdren’s pant leg that was found to contain more of the same crystal-like material. The substances were later confirmed to be methamphetamine, in an amount over 3 grams.

In addition to the prison sentence, Holdren was ordered to pay a mandatory $5,000 fine and court costs, both due within five years.

Assistant Prosecutor Ashley Johnson and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Elizabeth Pepper led the prosecution on behalf of the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office.

“This sentence reflects our continued efforts to stop the introduction of dangerous drugs into our community and our jail system,” said Athens County Prosecutor Keller J. Blackburn. “We are grateful for the work of Ashley, Liz, and the team at the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail who ensured that Mr. Holdren was held accountable.”

The case was investigated with the cooperation of staff at the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail and the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office.

09/30/2025

Collins Sentenced to 110 years to 175.5 Years in Prison

Athens, Ohio – Athens County Common Pleas Judge Patrick Lang sentenced Robert Collins to a minimum of 110 years to a maximum of 175.5 years. The sentence is as follows:

Count 1: R**e (F1) - minimum of 10 years to maximum of 25 years
Count 2: R**e (F1) - minimum of 10 years to maximum of 25 years
Count 3: R**e (F1) - minimum of 10 years to maximum of 25 years
Count 4: R**e (F1) - minimum of 10 years to maximum of 25 years
Count 5: Corrupting Another with Drugs (F4) – 18 months
Count 6: R**e (F1) - Reagan Tokes indefinite sentence of 11 to 16.5 years with additional 10 years for being a repeat violent offender
Count 7: Attempted R**e (F2) - 8 years
Count 8: Gross Sexual Imposition (F4) - 18 months
Count 9: Intimidation of an Attorney, Victim or Witness in a Criminal Case (F3) - 36 months
Count 10: Tampering with Evidence (F3) - 36 months
Count 11: Corrupting Another with Drugs (F4) - 18 months
Count 12: Illegal Use of a Minor or Impaired Person in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance (F2) - 8 years
Count 13: Menacing by Stalking (F4) -18 months
Count 14: Gross Sexual Imposition (F4) - 18 months
Count 15: Gross Sexual Imposition (F4) - 18 months
Count 16: Attempted Gross Sexual Imposition (F5) – 12 months
Count 17: Intimidation of an Attorney, Victim or Witness in a Criminal Case (F3) - 12 months
Count 18: Attempted Corrupting Another with Drugs (F5) - 12 months
Count 19: Attempted Corrupting Another with Drugs (F5) - 12 months
Count 20: Attempted Corrupting Another with Drugs (F5) - 12 months
Count 21: Attempted Gross Sexual Imposition (F5) - 12 months

This is a total of a minimum of 110 years to a maximum of 175.5 years imprisonment – the maximum possible sentence for each count.

On September 23, 2025 following a four day jury trial, Robert Collins, 63, of Glouster, was found guilty of 21 counts related to the sexual assault of children. The charges stem from the defendant’s grooming of children by providing ma*****na, alcohol, and vapes to create an opportunity to sexually assault them.

"Liz (Pepper) and Ashley’s (Johnson) work on the prosecution gave these victims voice a megaphone to lead to the conviction. ‘You win with people” to ‘Make our community better’ and Liz, Ashley, Jay, Chuck, Lauren and all who worked for justice on this matter are some of our best people, and our community is certainly better. Collins’ should spend the rest of his natural life in prison, never to victimize children again. Too many have been hurt by his horrific actions, may the victims heal and may he serve his remaining days locked securely away.” - Keller J. Blackburn

This case was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office and referred to The Athens County Prosecutor’s Office for further investigation. ACPO Investigator Chuck Love was the prosecuting officer, he was assisted in the investigation by Chief Investigator Jay Barrett, investigators and analysts of the prosecutor’s office, the CAC of Ross County, Sheriff Rodney Smith’s detectives, and with special assistance from the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office and the Southeast Correctional Institution. The case was presented by First Chair Ashley Johnson and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Liz Pepper.

09/24/2025

Collins faces Life in Prison following Jury’s verdict on 21 count Child Sexual Assault Trial

Athens, Ohio - After a four day jury trial, Robert Collins, 63, of Glouster, was found guilty of a 21 count indictment related to the sexual assault of children. The charges stem from the defendants grooming of children by providing ma*****na, alcohol, and vapes to create an opportunity for assault.

The defendant was convicted of five counts of R**e, the most severe carrying a maximum penalty of Life in prison.
The State of Ohio called 15 witnesses, including 9 victims, 2 Athens County Prosecutor Secret Service officers, and 4 lay witnesses, in the case presided over by Judge Patrick Lang.

"The courage of these nine victims to share their trauma is the only reason justice was served. I am grateful to the dedicated professionals who fight for children every day. Liz (Pepper) and Ashley’s (Johnson) work on the prosecution gave these victims voice a megaphone to lead to the conviction. ‘You win with people” to ‘Make our community better’ and Liz, Ashley, Jay, Chuck, Lauren and all who worked for justice on this matter are some of our best people, and our community is certainly better.”

Sentencing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM in courtroom A.

This case was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office and referred to The Athens County Prosecutor’s Office for further investigation. ACPO Investigator Chuck Love was the prosecuting officer, he was assisted in the investigation by Chief Investigator Jay Barrett, investigators and analysts of the prosecutor’s office, the CAC of Ross County, Sheriff Rodney Smith’s detectives, and with special assistance from the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office and the Southeast Correctional Institution. The case was presented by First Chair Ashley Johnson and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Liz Pepper.

08/19/2025

New Location, Same Support ---

Our Peer-to-Peer Recovery Meeting has a new home! Starting next week (8/26), we’ll be meeting at the Athens City Health Department—right down the street from our previous spot.

EVERY Tuesday | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Meeting Room @ Athens City Health Department
278 W. Union St., Athens, OH

This weekly group, in partnership with TASC of Southeast Ohio, offers a welcoming, judgment-free space for anyone in recovery—or supporting someone who is. Whether you're just starting out or continuing your journey, you're not alone. Come as you are.

Questions? Call the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office at 740-592-3208. Can't wait to see you there!

08/14/2025

Athens County Empowerment (A.C.E.) Program Participants Continue Community Support Through Clean-Up and Beautification Projects

Over the past several months, participants in Keller J. Blackburn’s Athens County Empowerment (A.C.E.) Program have remained active in providing vital community service throughout Athens County. From township and village clean-ups to cemetery maintenance and public space improvements, A.C.E. diversion participants have made meaningful contributions across the county.

In April, A.C.E. participants assisted with township and cemetery clean-up efforts. Twelve individuals helped residents in Alexander Township by managing the drop-off of large items for recycling and disposal. Later in the month, six participants worked over two days in Trimble Township, clearing overgrowth and w**d eating at local cemeteries. In Chauncey, five participants supported the town’s clean-up day by assisting residents with large-item drop-offs.

During May, community support expanded significantly. Participants returned to Trimble Township several times throughout the month to assist with ongoing cemetery maintenance. Lodi and Glouster Townships also benefited from A.C.E. assistance during their respective clean-up events, where participants helped residents dispose of or recycle unwanted items. Additionally, individuals helped beautify public spaces by w**d eating in the Village of Jacksonville, cleaning up the bike path and surrounding areas in partnership with the Athens County Commissioners Office, and providing landscaping support around the Title Office building on East State Street. Trustee Dusty Murphy of Trimble Township and Candy Russell from the Title Office both expressed appreciation for the A.C.E. Program’s continued support.

In June, participants assisted in a variety of projects across the county. Trimble Township again received help with cemetery maintenance, while the Village of Jacksonville was supported through a curb clean-up project. A multi-town effort also took place during the month, where participants assisted in Jacksonville, Trimble, and Glouster, collecting tires and other recyclable materials directly from residents’ homes.

Athens County Prosecutor Keller J. Blackburn said, “Month after month, the A.C.E. Program participants are making a tangible difference in our communities. Their work helps improve our public spaces, support our townships, and create stronger community connections across Athens County.”

If your community could benefit from these services, please contact Jonah McClelland at the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office at 740-592-3208.

Athens County Prosecutor

04/13/2026

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Monday	8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday	8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday	8am - 4:30pm
Thursday	8am - 4:30pm
Friday	8am - 4:30pm