Ashville, OH – December 13, 2024 – Ashville Police Chief Jeff George has been charged with unauthorized use of property, a fourth-degree misdemeanor, following an investigation into alleged theft from the department’s evidence room. The charge stems from video footage that appears to show Chief George removing a high-end fishing pole from the evidence room and taking it home.
In July, Chief George was placed on investigative suspension with pay, and a sergeant from the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, along with Human Resources, escorted him out of the department.
This investigation began after the Ashville Council reviewed the evidence presented to them during an executive session.. Despite the allegations, the council chose not to remove Chief George from his position. However, they indicated that the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Department might conduct its own investigation into the matter.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for December 19, 2024. An outside county is leading the investigation to ensure impartiality.
The Ashville community is closely following the developments, awaiting further information about the charges against Chief George and the future of the Ashville Police Department. Stay tuned for additional updates as this story unfolds.
