Special prosecutor appointed in Clearcreek Twp. trustee probe

Clearcreek trustee case prompts questions about ethics inquiries

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By Ed Richter, Staff Writer Updated 5:11 PM Wednesday, December 2, 2009

LEBANON — A Warren County judge recently appointed a special prosecutor to review the investigative report completed by the Ohio Ethics Commission on a Clearcreek Twp. trustee.

According to court documents, on Nov. 17, Common Pleas Judge Neal Bronson appointed Clinton County Prosecutor Richard Moyer as a special prosecutor to review the investigative report, recommendation and conclusion of the Ohio Ethics Commission regarding allegations against Clearcreek Twp. trustee Ed Wade as well as handle any criminal prosecution or reprimand if facts support such action.

Moyer was requested by Warren County Prosecutor Rachel Hutzel. However, in his order, Bronson said the actions of the special prosecutor will be independent of the Warren County Prosecutor’s Office.

Wade has been the subject of an ongoing Ohio Ethics Commission investigation for nearly 14 months. The investigation is concerning an October 2008 referral by state auditors to the ethics commission based on findings against him in connection with about $1.2 million in health insurance coverage provided to Clearcreek Twp. that was administered by his insurance agency.

Private lawyers advised Clearcreek Twp. that Wade’s agency could administer the township’s health insurance in November 2003.

However, the state audit, aided by township Fiscal Officer Linda Oda, made a finding against Wade involving two laws prohibiting public officials from gaining something of value or having unlawful interest in public contracts.

Wade’s response to the allegations has been the private legal advice supporting the relationship and said the township received better service and saved money as a result. His firm no longer administer’s township health claims.

Wade has been a township trustee since 1977 and was re-elected to a new four-year term last month.

Staff Writer Lawrence Budd contributed to this report.

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