Columbus – The following statement may be attributed to Auditor of State Dave Yost concerning the indictment of former Mt. Sterling Village Administrator Joseph A. Johnson by the Madison County grand jury:

“The facts laid out in the indictment are alarming and disturbing in terms of volume and brazenness,” Auditor Yost said. “The justice system will sort through this information to determine Mr. Johnson’s guilt or innocence.” 

Auditor of State Assistant Legal Counsel Robert Smith was appointed special prosecutor in the case and Auditor of State Investigator Dennis Graul led the investigation. Johnson is alleged to have used village credit cards to purchase vehicles, vehicle parts, mechanical equipment, televisions and other miscellaneous items which resulted in the following charges: 1 count engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity (Felony 1); 11 counts of theft in office (F3); 11 counts of theft in office (F4); 1 count of theft (F3); 2 counts of money laundering (F3); 1 count of tampering with records (F3); 3 counts of failure to file tax returns (F5) for years 2012, 2013 and 2014. 

Click here to view a media release from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,800 state and local government agencies.  Under the direction of Auditor Dave Yost, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government.

Contact:
Ben Marrison
Director of Communications
614-644-1111