AUGLAIZE COUNTY, OH (WLIO) - The testimony in the trial for suspended Wapakoneta mayor Thomas Stinebaugh began Tuesday.
Jury selection took all day on Monday, and the opening statement began Tuesday. Around 30 subpoenas have been issued for people who could possibly testify in the trial. Stinebaugh was indicted on 17 counts, including having unlawful interest in a public contract, conflict of interest, and theft in office. He pleaded not guilty on all counts. The trial is under the direction of a visiting judge.
According to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, the investigation into Stinebaugh began after "alleged public corruption charges" related to business dealings that he conducted while mayor. Those offenses allegedly took place between 2016 and 2019 and involved signing contracts with family members and a business partner. It also alleges that Stinebaugh had the city pay for a sewer line on a property that his private company is developing. The trial is scheduled to go until October 31st.
