South Bloomfield, OH — November 6, 2024 — Former South Bloomfield Mayor Matthew Pettibone has been found guilty of having an unlawful interest in a public contract, a charge stemming from a violation of Ohio’s Ethics Law. The charge relates to Pettibone’s involvement in a public contracting process, where he used his position to benefit either himself or his associates.
Pettibone was indicted in July 2024 based on findings from an investigation that began in April 2020. The indictment accused Pettibone of exploiting his authority as mayor to secure contracts for entities with which he had personal or business ties, a clear violation of the law that prohibits public officials from engaging in actions that could improperly influence public contracts.
At his court appearance, Pettibone pleaded Not Guilty and was initially released on his own recognizance. However, after the trial, the court found him guilty of the felony charge, classified as a fourth-degree felony under Ohio law. As part of the sentencing process, a Presentence Investigation (PSI) has been ordered to evaluate Pettibone’s background and any mitigating factors before a final sentence is handed down. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for a later date.
The case serves as a significant reminder of Ohio’s ongoing commitment to upholding ethical standards in public office and ensuring that public officials are held accountable for any violations of the public trust. Public officials, including mayors and other government representatives, are forbidden from using their influence to secure personal or financial gains, a principle designed to maintain transparency and fairness in government operations.
Further updates will be provided as the sentencing process moves forward and additional details emerge.
