Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office

Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office The Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office is committed to justice for all members of our community.

SIX YEARS IN PRISON FOR USING OTHER PEOPLE'S IDENTITIESGiving police someone else's name didn't keep Ryan McKelvey out o...
09/15/2026

SIX YEARS IN PRISON FOR USING OTHER PEOPLE'S IDENTITIES

Giving police someone else's name didn't keep Ryan McKelvey out of trouble.

It added to it.

McKelvey, 42, has been sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of 10 offenses, including Identity Fraud, Forgery, Tampering with Records, and drug-related charges.

The case began during a traffic stop by the Zanesville Police Department.

When officers asked McKelvey to identify himself, he provided another person's name and personal information.

He then signed four documents using that false identity.

Investigators kept digging and discovered this wasn't the first time.

Detectives determined that during a previous arrest McKelvey had used another individual's identity and again signed four documents using false identifying information.

Assistant Prosecutor Warren Edwards handled the case:

"Trying to use another person's identity when caught committing a crime is simply another attempt by a criminal to avoid responsibility for their crime,” said APA Warren Edwards who handled the case.

“This type of fraud on the system will not be tolerated and comes with severe additional consequences in Muskingum County."

Judge Kelly Cottrill sentenced McKelvey to six years in prison.

Using someone else's identity to avoid accountability doesn't make the original problem disappear.

It creates new crimes and new consequences.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Zanesville-Man-Sentenced-To-Six-Years-For-Identity-Fraud-Forgery-And-Other-Offenses/443/



FOUR YEARS IN PRISON FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTACKA Zanesville man who strangled and restrained a victim during a domesti...
09/14/2026

FOUR YEARS IN PRISON FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTACK

A Zanesville man who strangled and restrained a victim during a domestic violence attack has been sentenced to four years in prison.

Tanner Greiner, 21, pleaded guilty to Kidnapping and Domestic Violence before Judge Kelly Cottrill.

The victim reported that during an argument, Greiner slapped her across the face, grabbed her, held her down, and then strangled her.

Strangulation is an especially dangerous form of domestic violence. A victim can suffer serious internal injuries even when there are few obvious injuries visible afterward.

Assistant Prosecutor Warren Edwards, who prosecuted the case, said that is why these cases must be taken seriously:

“Strangulation is one of the most dangerous forms of domestic violence because a victim can be seriously injured or killed in a very short period of time. Victims should understand how serious strangulation is, and offenders should understand that this type of violence will have serious consequences.”

Judge Cottrill sentenced Greiner to four years in prison and ordered him to register as a violent offender for 10 years following his release.

Domestic violence is not something victims have to face alone.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, reaching out to law enforcement or a victim-service organization can be the first step toward safety.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Zanesville-Man-Sentenced-To-Four-Years-For-Strangulation/442/

8 YEARS IN PRISON FOR TRAFFICKING FENTANYL AND OTHER DRUGSA Columbus man convicted of trafficking fentanyl, methamphetam...
09/14/2026

8 YEARS IN PRISON FOR TRAFFICKING FENTANYL AND OTHER DRUGS

A Columbus man convicted of trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, co***ne, and other drugs in Muskingum County has been sentenced to eight years in prison.

Chaise King was convicted by a Muskingum County jury in August of eight drug offenses involving fentanyl, methamphetamine, buprenorphine, and co***ne.

The case began with a 2025 traffic stop. Deputies testified that the driver and front-seat passenger had picked King up to buy drugs from him.

Drugs were found in the area where King had been sitting. Deputies also discovered scales and a fake fi***rm.

Assistant Prosecutor Lucas Howard prosecuted the case.

Prosecutor Ron Welch said the case illustrates an important distinction in how the Prosecutor’s Office approaches the drug problem:

“There is a difference between someone struggling with addiction who is willing to accept help and someone who chooses to make money selling fentanyl, methamphetamine, co***ne, and other drugs in our community.”

“We will continue providing appropriate treatment and diversion opportunities for people genuinely trying to overcome addiction. But those who choose to profit by selling dangerous drugs in Muskingum County should expect to be prosecuted.”

King will now serve eight years in prison.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Columbus-Drug-Trafficker-Sentenced-To-Eight-Years-In-Prison/441/



ACCOUNTABILITY AND RECOVERY: OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAYMembers of the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office and our DART prog...
09/08/2026

ACCOUNTABILITY AND RECOVERY: OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY

Members of the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office and our DART program joined more than 20 community partners at the 2026 Overdose Awareness Day event at Zane’s Landing.

“Knot Alone: United in Purpose” brought together families, service providers, and community organizations to remember those lost to overdose and connect people with prevention, treatment, and recovery resources.

Prosecutor Ron Welch said addressing the drug problem requires recognizing an important distinction:

“We will aggressively prosecute the people who bring fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other dangerous drugs into Muskingum County for profit. But when an appropriate nonviolent offender is struggling with substance use and is genuinely ready to change, programs like DART can provide an opportunity for treatment while still requiring accountability.”

DART gives eligible individuals facing nonviolent, substance-use-related charges an opportunity to address the issues contributing to their criminal behavior while remaining accountable through program requirements.

Overdose and addiction affect far more than one individual. They affect families and the entire community.

We appreciate Drug Free Muskingum and the many local organizations working every day to prevent overdose, support recovery, and connect people with help.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Prosecutor-S-Office-Supports-Drug-Free-Muskingum-At-Overdose-Awareness-Event/440/

COLUMBUS MAN CONVICTED OF SEVEN FELONIES IN MUSKINGUM COUNTY DRUG CASEA Muskingum County jury has convicted 26-year-old ...
09/04/2026

COLUMBUS MAN CONVICTED OF SEVEN FELONIES IN MUSKINGUM COUNTY DRUG CASE

A Muskingum County jury has convicted 26-year-old Vintrel Cloud of seven felony offenses following a two-day trial before Judge Gerald Anderson.

The case began with a 2024 traffic stop in Fultonham. Deputies discovered a large quantity of drugs inside the vehicle, while Cloud was found with a digital scale. The lid to the scale was found inside the case containing the drugs.

Cloud denied the drugs were his.
But investigators kept working.

A search warrant for Cloud’s cellphone uncovered evidence of his ongoing sales of methamphetamine, co***ne, and fentanyl.

Cloud was already on probation in relation to a gang shooting in Columbus and has a criminal history that includes aggravated robberies, stolen vehicles, and offenses involving illegally possessed fi***rms.

Assistant Prosecutors John Litle and Jahan Karamali prosecuted the case.

“Muskingum County jurors continue to prove that they will show up, do the hard work, and hold the guilty accountable,” Litle said.
His message to those who come into Muskingum County to sell drugs was equally clear:

“Cloud’s experience should stand as a warning to other out-of-town drug dealers who believe they can make a quick buck selling drugs in our county.”

Cloud faces more than 13 years in prison when he is sentenced.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Columbus-Man-On-Probation-In-Franklin-County-Convicted-Of-Seven-Felonies-In-Muskingum-County-Drug-Trafficking-Case/439/

STANDING WITH VICTIMS: SUPPORTING TRANSITIONSMembers of the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office recently traded the cou...
09/03/2026

STANDING WITH VICTIMS: SUPPORTING TRANSITIONS

Members of the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office recently traded the courtroom for the golf course to support an organization whose work directly impacts victims throughout our community.

The annual golf outing benefiting Transitions Domestic Violence Shelter brought together businesses, organizations, public officials, and community members to support victims of domestic violence and their families.

A special recognition goes to Assistant Prosecutor Kallen Haddox, who played an instrumental role in organizing this year’s outing and bringing together participants and sponsors in support of Transitions.

We also appreciate Green Valley Golf Course for hosting the event for the third consecutive year and everyone who participated or sponsored the outing.

Prosecutor Ron Welch, who also sponsored the event, summed up why supporting organizations like Transitions matters:

“Protecting victims doesn’t begin and end in a courtroom. Prosecutors and law enforcement have an important role, but making our community safer requires the involvement of the entire community.”

For victims of domestic violence, the message from events like this is important:

You are not alone. Our community stands with you.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Prosecutor-S-Office-Supports-Transitions-Domestic-Violence-Shelter-At-Annual-Golf-Outing/438/

6–9 YEARS IN PRISON FOR FATAL IMPAIRED-DRIVING CRASHA Westerville man has been sentenced to 6–9 years in prison for an i...
09/03/2026

6–9 YEARS IN PRISON FOR FATAL IMPAIRED-DRIVING CRASH

A Westerville man has been sentenced to 6–9 years in prison for an impaired-driving crash that took the life of a 39-year-old mother.

In April 2025, Michael Morgan crossed the center line on State Route 146 and struck an oncoming SUV head-on. The driver was killed on impact.

The investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol found evidence of alcohol and Alprazolam, a prescription medication, in Morgan’s system. Morgan ultimately pleaded no contest to Aggravated Vehicular Homicide and OVI charges and was found guilty.

Judge Kelly Cottrill sentenced Morgan to 6–9 years in prison and imposed a lifetime driver’s license suspension.

But this case is about more than a prison sentence.

The victim was remembered by her family as a daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend who dedicated her life to helping others — including foster children aging out of the system. Her family described a woman who made people feel “seen, valued, and loved” and whose compassion touched countless lives.

“No punishment can adequately account for the loss of an innocent life. We hope holding Mr. Morgan criminally accountable provides the victim’s family some measure of closure,” Assistant Prosecutor Warren Edwards said.

Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch emphasized the consequences of choosing to drive while impaired:

“Getting drunk and getting behind the wheel is not an accident — it is a choice. Once you choose to drive impaired, you are gambling with the lives of every innocent person you meet on the road. Here, that choice took the life of a mother and left a family with a loss that no prison sentence can ever repair. If you are drunk, don’t drive. It really is that simple.”

Impaired driving can change — or end — a life in seconds. Make the responsible choice. Don’t drive impaired.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Westerville-Man-Found-Guilty-Of-Vehicular-Homicide-Sentenced-To-6-Years/437/

32 YEARS IN PRISONSEXUAL ASSAULT OF TWO CHILDRENTwo children found the courage to speak.Their bravery helped ensure a re...
09/02/2026

32 YEARS IN PRISON
SEXUAL ASSAULT OF TWO CHILDREN

Two children found the courage to speak.

Their bravery helped ensure a repeat offender will not be released from prison before he is 80 years old.

Charles B. Robinson, 55, of Zanesville, has been sentenced to 32 years in prison for crimes involving the s*xual assault of two minor children.

The investigation began after one child disclosed during a forensic interview that Robinson had s*xually assaulted her.

A second investigation began after a hidden cellphone was discovered among another child's possessions. A forensic examination of the phone using Cellebrite recovered s*xually explicit messages Robinson had sent to the child.

Detectives Perry and Morton learned that Robinson had secretly provided the cellphone to the child. The child also disclosed that Robinson had s*xually assaulted her more than once.

Robinson ultimately admitted his guilt to Gross Sexual Imposition, two counts of Sexual Battery, Endangering Children, and Tampering with Evidence.

This was not Robinson's first involvement with the criminal justice system. His criminal history dates back to 1989 and includes serious felony convictions in multiple states.

Judge Kelly Cottrill sentenced Robinson to 5 years in the first case and a minimum of 27 years in the second case, with 24 years mandatory.

The sentences will be served consecutively for a total of 32 years in prison—the maximum sentence available for the charges to which Robinson pleaded guilty.

Robinson was also classified as a Tier II s*x offender and will be required to register every 180 days for 25 years.

"Being able to achieve this sentence without having to have multiple children undergo the difficult task of testifying about being s*xually assaulted in a courtroom full of strangers and in front of their abuser is a significant accomplishment," said Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch.

"The victims in this case displayed an incredible amount of bravery in coming forward. Their bravery means this offender will not be released before he is 80 years old."

For a child, disclosing s*xual abuse can be one of the most difficult and frightening things they will ever do.

Children may experience shame, embarrassment, confusion and fear. They may worry they won't be believed. They may blame themselves. They may fear that speaking up will hurt their family or completely change their lives.

When a child finds the courage to disclose abuse, adults need to listen.

Believe them. Take the disclosure seriously. And allow trained professionals to investigate.

In this case, two children found that courage.
Their voices were heard.
And their abuser received 32 years in prison.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Zanesville-Man-Sentenced-To-32-Years-In-Prison-For-Sexual-Assault-Of-Two-Minors/436/

15 YEARS IN PRISONFour separate criminal cases. An armed robbery. A stolen fi***rm. Illegal possession of a weapon. Drug...
09/01/2026

15 YEARS IN PRISON
Four separate criminal cases. An armed robbery. A stolen fi***rm. Illegal possession of a weapon. Drugs. And an attack on another inmate while already behind bars.

Kyle West, 28, will now spend the next 15 years in prison.

West's criminal conduct included entering a local Walmart while armed and breaking into a jewelry display case to steal jewelry.

Just days later, the Muskingum County Sheriff's Office began investigating the theft of a handgun. A forensic examination of West's cellphone recovered video showing him holding the stolen gun. Investigators identified the same fi***rm in surveillance footage from the Walmart robbery.

Even being incarcerated didn't stop West's criminal behavior.
While in jail, security cameras captured West punching another inmate, throwing him to the ground, grabbing him by the throat and strangling him during an altercation that began over a cup of juice.

West was also convicted of possessing Ketamine in a separate case.
These weren't West's first encounters with the criminal justice system. His record already included convictions for Theft, Breaking and Entering, and Burglary.

Judge Kelly Cottrill ordered West's sentences in the four cases to be served consecutively, resulting in a total sentence of 15 years in prison.

"This defendant was given opportunity after opportunity to follow the law and instead continued committing crimes—including while incarcerated," said Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch.
"For the next 15 years, the law-abiding citizens of Muskingum County will be protected from his continued criminal conduct."

Accountability matters. Public safety matters.
Read the complete case information on the Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office website.

https://www.muskingumprosecutor.org/News-Events/Repeat-Offender-Sentenced-To-15-Years-After-Four-Separate-Criminal-Cases/435/

Address

27 N. Fifth Street , Suite 201
Zanesville, OH
43701

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Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

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+17404557123

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