Former Hocking County prosecutor says alcoholism played role in office conduct
Bethany BrunerThe former Hocking County prosecutor said his behavior while in office — including allegations of sexual harassment and engaging in an affair with a county commissioner — was due in part to his mental health and alcoholism.
Ryan Black, 41, made the comments through his attorney in a written response to a disciplinary complaint filed against him with the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct.
Black resigned from his position as county prosecutor effective Friday.
Earlier this month, a formal complaint was filed against Black with the professional conduct board, which oversees discipline of attorneys in Ohio.
The complaint accused Black of:
- Creating a hostile work environment and frequently using obscenity to the point of making staff members uncomfortable
- Commenting on a female subordinate's clothing in a sexual manner
- Sending unsolicited images of himself shirtless to a female subordinate
- Having a sexual relationship with a county commissioner, whom Black would be responsible for representing as the county's prosecutor. That commissioner is currently suspended from her position for unrelated allegations of misconduct.
Black responded to the complaint on Tuesday through his attorney, Alvin Mathews. In the response, Black does not address several of the allegations, which are the subject of an ongoing federal civil lawsuit alleging sexual discrimination.
Black denies the allegations against him in the lawsuit, including allegations he pressured a female employee to engage in sexual conduct.
However, Black said that while he was serving as prosecutor Black "suffered from a mental health disorder and an alcohol use disorder," the response says, adding that Black is "seeking ongoing treatment." The disorders "contributed to cause any conduct for which (Black) is responsible," the response says.
The disciplinary case will next be scheduled for a hearing before a three-member panel. The members of that panel will consist of three attorneys or judges who do not reside in the area of the state where Black practices law.
Potential discipline, should the panel determine discipline is necessary, could involve the suspension of Black's law license or disbarment.