Cleveland, Ohio – A state board has recommended a two-year suspension for Leslie Ann Celebrezze, a judge at the Cuyahoga County Domestic Relations Court, citing significant misconduct. The Ohio Board of Professional Conduct detailed in its report that Celebrezze allegedly made false statements to colleagues and investigators while directing business to her longtime friend, Mark Dottore.
The board’s recommendation follows a two-year inquiry initiated by investigations into Celebrezze’s ties with Dottore. The report emphasized that judges are expected to maintain integrity and honesty in their roles. The board stated that the imposition of a suspension is essential to prevent other judges from similar misconduct and to reassure the public that such behavior is unacceptable.
Should the Ohio Supreme Court accept the recommendation, one year of the suspension might be lifted if Celebrezze refrains from further violations and covers the costs of her proceedings. The court’s ruling could take months, although Celebrezze’s current term is set to end in January 2027.
Celebrezze and Dottore have not responded to requests for comments regarding the case. Both are under federal investigation by the FBI, which has increased scrutiny after The Marshall Project – Cleveland reported on their relationship. The board noted that Celebrezze invoked her Fifth Amendment rights during her disciplinary hearing, which is related to this ongoing investigation.
In her defense, Celebrezze requested a public reprimand after acknowledging 15 counts of judicial and professional misconduct. While the Ohio Supreme Court’s Office of Disciplinary Counsel initially sought a one-year suspension, the board found this proposal insufficient given the details of the case.
The board’s investigation revealed numerous violations across four divorce cases overseen by Celebrezze. It noted improper case assignments, undisclosed personal relationships, and false statements made during disciplinary proceedings. Celebrezze allegedly directed lucrative divorce cases to Dottore by manipulating the court’s random assignment process.
The report highlights that Celebrezze approved nearly $500,000 in fees to Dottore’s company between January 2017 and June 2023. Court records indicate that she appointed Dottore or his daughter as receivers in the majority of these cases.
The misconduct was reportedly uncovered when Strongsville businessman Jason Jardine hired a private investigator to follow Celebrezze. Investigative footage showed her spending extensive time at Dottore’s residence and office, raising suspicions regarding their relationship. Jardine indicated that he found it troubling that Celebrezze did not disclose her connection with Dottore to the court.
In a related case, a visiting judge ordered Dottore to repay Jardine and his ex-wife hundreds of thousands of dollars for unauthorized fees and overbilling. Dottore has stated he plans to appeal this ruling.
Records reveal that the relationship between Celebrezze and Dottore went beyond mere friendship. Conversations between them were frequent, amounting to over 300 hours in a single year. The board concluded that regardless of whether their relationship was romantic or emotional, its appearance undermined public confidence in the judicial process.
This unfolding situation poses significant implications not just for Celebrezze’s career, but for the integrity of the judicial system in Ohio, raising questions about accountability for those in positions of power.
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