Cincinnati, Ohio – Attorneys delivered opening statements Tuesday in the latest federal trial connected to what has been described as the largest political corruption scandal in Ohio history.
Prosecutors allege that two former FirstEnergy executives, Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling, helped orchestrate a $4.3 million payment from FirstEnergy to Sam Randazzo shortly before Randazzo was appointed as Ohio’s top utility regulator.
Federal prosecutors argue the payment was tied to efforts to influence regulatory decisions benefiting the energy company. The case is part of a broader investigation surrounding the passage of Ohio’s controversial energy legislation and related political activity.
Jones and Dowling have denied wrongdoing. The trial is expected to include testimony and evidence detailing the alleged financial transactions and the circumstances surrounding Randazzo’s appointment.
