Former Ohio Public Utilities Commission chairman Samuel Randazzo has pleaded not guilty to a dozen charges related to bribery and embezzlement, as part of the state’s largest corruption scandal. Randazzo, 74, allegedly received over $4.3 million from FirstEnergy in exchange for favorable actions through PUCO proceedings. These actions have prompted a federal grand jury to indict Randazzo on various counts, including travel act bribery, wire fraud, and making illegal monetary transactions.
Randazzo self-surrendered and appeared before the U.S. District Court in Cincinnati after the indictment was returned. Despite being brought into the courtroom in handcuffs, he pleaded not guilty and was released on recognizance.
His alleged involvement in the massive bribery and bailout scandal in Ohio has been heavily covered by local news outlets, which followed the legislation from the Statehouse to the arrests, trial, conviction, and sentencing of former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and former GOP leader Matt Borges.
Randazzo is accused of using his position to benefit FirstEnergy and its affiliates, receiving bribe money through his consulting business and embezzling funds meant for an energy industry group. If convicted as charged, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
The scandal has also led to a civil lawsuit that has subpoenaed documents and is scheduling a sworn deposition with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted. While they are not accused of any wrongdoing, members of their administration were significant players in the FirstEnergy scheme, raising questions about their involvement in vetting Randazzo for his role.
The scandal has rocked Ohio’s political landscape and is being closely monitored by the public as it unfolds. News outlets, including News 5, continue to follow through on the story and provide updates as developments occur.