In The News 2 May 2026

Former Hocking County chief deputy sentenced to prison in corruption case

CHILLICOTHE — A former chief deputy with the Hocking County Sheriff’s Office was sentenced May 1 to seven to nine years in prison, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced.

“Law enforcement must serve with integrity to maintain trust and safety in their communities – this defendant neglected that duty and dishonored the badge,” Yost said. “The residents of Hocking County deserve better.”

The sentencing of Caleb Moritz, of Logan, follows his March 25 conviction in Ross County Common Pleas Court. A jury found him guilty of seven felony charges, including corrupting another with drugs; intimidation of an attorney, victim or witness; unlawful transaction in weapons; theft; and forgery.

Numerous complaints of corruption tied to his employment and interactions with confidential informants and victims sparked an investigation by the Hocking County Prosecutor’s Office. Upon resigning from his position in April 2023, Moritz stole property, including a firearm, from the sheriff’s office.

Moritz was initially charged in Hocking County in 2023, but at the request of the defense and prosecution, the case was tried in Ross County.

Yost’s Special Prosecutions Section led the prosecution of the case.

••• Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 28 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service – and want it to continue – it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.

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