MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Supreme Court of Ohio has appointed a judge to oversee a high-profile lawsuit involving Marion City Councilman Ayers Ratliff and his wife, Heidi.
The couple filed the lawsuit on July 17 against Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan and several others, alleging claims that include false arrest, wrongful imprisonment, malicious prosecution, retaliation, libel, and slander.
Retired Judge Jonathan P. Hein, who previously served on the Darke County Court of Common Pleas, has been selected to handle the case.
Hein is known for his experience, having presided over various matters for 24 years and gained notoriety for overseeing the Pike County Massacre case as a visiting judge.
The assignment comes after Marion Judges Frericks and Anderson recused themselves from the proceedings.
Marion County Now will continue to follow this developing news story.