SHADYSIDE, Ohio — Former Shadyside Village Council member and current mayoral candidate Nick Ferrelli entered a plea agreement Thursday in Belmont County Eastern Division Court, resolving his case involving alleged stalking of Village Administrator Erica Tamburin.
Originally accused of one count of menacing by stalking, Ferrelli pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of misdemeanor disorderly conduct. Judge David Trouten sentenced him to two years of probation, a $100 fine, and court costs. Trouten also issued a no-contact order, requiring Ferrelli to stay at least 500 feet from Tamburin’s home and barring all direct or indirect communication with her, including through social media.
Ferrelli is also prohibited from entering the village’s municipal building except to attend council meetings. However, his attorney, Ted Tsoras, said Ferrelli’s contracting business requires him to visit the building for permits. Trouten said the court will review potential modifications at a later date after receiving details about Ferrelli’s business needs.
Before sentencing, Tamburin delivered a victim impact statement, saying she had lived in fear for more than a year and a half and never felt safe at home or work. She said she has sought professional help to cope with the stress and anxiety.
Attorney Tsoras, in court, noted that Tamburin had previously accused another council member, Sam Carpino, of stalking in 2024 — allegations that did not result in charges.
Attorney Tsoras referenced an earlier investigation into Shadyside Councilman Sam Carpino involving the purchase of a tractor from the village’s former Board of Public Affairs. The board was dissolved when Tamburin was hired, removing the need for a separate water board under Ohio law.
Tamburin reportedly later accused Carpino of stalking after the investigation became public. However, no charges were filed against Carpino or other former board members, and the Ohio Auditor’s Office issued a report in July clearing Carpino of any wrongdoing.
In court, Shadyside mayoral candidate Ferrelli said he never intended to cause Tamburin any stress. He claimed the case against him was politically motivated to prevent his return to public office and told Judge Eric Trouten he holds no ill will toward her.
In a press release issued after the hearing, Tsoras said Ferrelli feels vindicated by the dismissal of the stalking charge and that several witnesses were prepared to testify in his defense. The release stated Ferrelli accepted the misdemeanor plea in part to help the village move forward and end.
