Former FirstEnergy executives indicted in corruption scheme

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – A federal grand jury indicted two former FirstEnergy executives in what’s been called the largest corruption scheme in Ohio history.

A grand jury indicted Charles E. Jones, 69, of Akron, and Michael Dowling, 60, of Massillon, one participating in a racketeering conspiracy, also known as a RICO charge, according to federal investigators.

The indictment is in connection to the FirstEnergy/House Bill 6 scandal that has already landed Ohio’s former Speaker of the House behind bars.

The new charges mark the first time federal prosecutors have charged those issuing the bribes in the scheme, as opposed to those charged for accepting the bribes.

According to a statement from the FBI, Jones and Dowling were allegedly part of a bribery, money laundering and obstruction scheme to boost the company’s stock price and for personal gain.

Federal investigators have alleged those within FirstEnergy paid bribes to get lawmakers in leadership positions to pass legislation that would benefit the company. Among them, former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder was convicted for his role in passing a nuclear bailout bill to benefit FirstEnergy.

The indictment alleges Jones and Dowling were involved in bribery payments that amounted to more than $60 million. It also alleged they paid millions to get people of their choosing on regulatory boards, including former PUCO Chairman Sam Randazzo. Jones allegedly thanked Randazzo for actions that raised the company’s stock price.

“I stated following the jury conviction of Householder and Borges that this office would continue to work tirelessly to hold more people accountable for their actions to harm Ohioans, and we have,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker. “This indictment is yet another step in the direction of that accountability.”

“This alleged $60 million racketeering conspiracy defrauded Ohioans to enrich the defendants,” stated FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola. “The FBI will continue to pursue political corruption and corporate fraud to protect taxpayers and hold white-collar criminals responsible for their actions.”

The FBI said the two are scheduled to face a judge on Friday. If convicted, the charges could land them in prison for up to 20 years.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for additional details.

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