MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—A judge from the Marion County Common Pleas Court has issued a ruling on three motions filed by defense attorneys representing Marion City Councilman Ayers Ratliff.
Ratliff’s attorneys submitted motions that included a request for court sanctions against Marion Prosecutor Ray Grogan’s office for failing to provide discovery, a motion to dismiss the indictment, and an alternative motion to compel the production of discovery.
Judge Matthew Frericks stated that the State has reiterated its ongoing obligation to provide discovery, expressing confidence that both parties are engaging in the discovery process in a professional manner. He noted that there has not been an unreasonable delay that would warrant an order to compel or a dismissal of the indictment.
Although Ratliff’s attorneys acknowledged receipt of the rulings, they expressed frustration over the ongoing delays and what they described as the “parsing” of discovery, arguing that all discovery should be complete prior to the indictment of their client.
While Grogan’s office provided the ruling to Marion County Now, they declined to offer any further comments on the case.
Ratliff is facing serious charges, including First Degree Felony Rape, Fourth Degree Felony Gross Sexual Imposition, and Third Degree Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor.