MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Attorneys representing Marion City Councilman Ayers Ratliff have filed a motion to dismiss all charges against him, which include First Degree Felony Rape, Fourth Degree Felony Gross Sexual Imposition, and Third Degree Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor. These charges arise from the same incident for which Ratliff was previously accused, but a May grand jury did not indict him within the required time frame.
The defense claims that the Marion Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecuting Attorney Ray Grogan, has failed to provide necessary discovery materials for Ratliff’s case. In their motion, the attorneys allege that Grogan’s office has intentionally delayed the process, which they describe as “sandbagging” by withholding evidence.
On September 12, 2024, Ratliff’s counsel requested the discovery materials via email and a hand-delivered letter to the Marion Prosecutor’s Office. Grogan responded, stating that his office would be closed for the Popcorn Festival and that they were still working on their response to the request. Notably, Ratliff’s attorneys did not close their office during the festival, despite its proximity to the event.
Ratliff’s legal team is urging Judge Fraricks to dismiss the case entirely and sanction Grogan for what they contend is an obstruction of justice.
Marion County Now will continue to monitor this developing story. For further details, the motion can be accessed through the provided link.