Hillsboro, Ohio – A significant criminal case is unfolding in Highland County as a grand jury has recently indicted eight individuals on various charges, sparking concerns about child safety and legal compliance in this quiet community. Among the accused are a Hillsboro man and a Seaman woman, both 65, who face serious charges related to child endangerment and assault, highlighting an alarming case of alleged ongoing abuse.
Roy Hansford of Hillsboro and Marilyn Gross of Seaman have been charged with two counts each of child endangerment and assault, classified as third-degree and fourth-degree felonies respectively. Prosecutors claim that between August 1, 2023, and September 1, 2024, Hansford and Gross administered harsh disciplinary measures to two victims, both of whom were either under the age of 18 or mentally handicapped individuals under 21, thereby putting their mental health and development at significant risk.
Additional allegations suggest that Hansford and Gross also attempted to physically harm these same individuals during the same time frame. Notably, both victims are described in court records as “functionally impaired persons” under the care of Hansford and Gross, which underscores the severity of the charges due to the victims’ vulnerable statuses.
Furthermore, the court has processed indictments against other residents for various offenses, reflecting broader legal issues within the county. Pearlee Newcomb, 37, from Hillsboro, faces a third-degree felony charge for failing to register a change of address as a required condition of his status as a registered sex offender. Tomie Showman, 41, of Washington Court House, has been indicted for telecommunications harassment on two counts, marking his repeated offenses in similar cases.
In addition to these indictments, several individuals are facing drug-related charges. These include James Williams IV, 43, from Beavercreek; Ronald Howland Jr., 50, and Randy Alexander Jr., 42, both from Greenfield; and Michelle Meddock, 50, from Hillsboro. Each has been charged with aggravated possession of methamphetamine, a fifth-degree felony.
This series of indictments illustrates an ongoing struggle against various forms of criminality in Highland County, ranging from child endangerment to drug offenses, and even failure to comply with legal requirements for registered sex offenders. The community now watches closely as these cases progress through the judicial system, hoping for justice and greater safety for its vulnerable members.
It’s essential for readers to note that while this article aims to provide comprehensive coverage of the recent indictments in Highland County, it was generated by automated technology from Open AI. Details such as names, facts, and circumstances mentioned herein could be inaccurate. For concerns or corrections, please reach out via email to contact@publiclawlibrary.org.