Columbus – As a result of an investigation by Auditor of State Keith Faber’s office, former Youngstown Mayor, Charles Sammarone, pled guilty to two charges of Tampering with Records (F3) and was sentenced to five years of community control and 30 hours community service.

On August 30, 2018, as a result of a large public corruption investigation by the Auditor’s office, Sammarone was included in a 101 count indictment, along with former City of Youngstown finance director David Bozanich and business developer, Dominic Marchionda. Sammarone was charged with 14 counts as follows:

·        One count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity (FI)

·        Nine counts of Bribery (F3)

·        Four counts of Tampering with Records (F3)

Yesterday, Sammarone entered into a negotiated plea agreement, pleading guilty to two counts of Tampering with Records. As Mayor of Youngstown, Sammarone was required to file ethics disclosure forms with the Ohio Ethics Commission. In such forms, he knowingly did not disclose at least the following:

·        Gifts provided to him in excess of $75

·        Bribe money from an employee of a local business

·        Rental income derived from owning a condo in Florida

If you suspect government fraud or corruption, contact the Auditor’s office at 1-688-FraudOH or visit our website at www.OhioAuditor.gov. Tips may be submitted anonymously.

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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 6,000 state and local government agencies. Under the direction of Auditor Keith Faber, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies, and promotes transparency in government.