Imprisoned ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder faces new felony charges that could permanently bar him from holding public office in the state. The 64-year-old was indicted on 10 new counts, including alleged misuse of campaign funds, ethics violations, and a theft in office charge. This extends the largest corruption case in state history, stemming from a $60 million bribery scheme funded by FirstEnergy Corp.
Householder, who is serving a 20-year sentence at Elkton Federal Correctional Institution, was convicted of racketeering in June for his role in the scandal. The indictment also accuses him of using campaign funds to pay for his defense in the federal case and failing to disclose important information on ethics filings.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost stated, “This case seeks to hold Mr. Householder accountable for his actions under state law, and I expect that the results will permanently bar him from public service in Ohio.” The investigation has also ensnared other key figures, including fired FirstEnergy executives and a former top utility regulator.
The scandal involved using the $60 million in illicit funds to secure Householder’s position as speaker and pass a controversial energy bill. Several individuals connected to the case have pleaded guilty or been convicted, highlighting the widespread corruption that has plagued Ohio politics.
