Clapsaddle Sentencing Delayed

Due to a conflict of interest, a new sentencing date has been set for Dustin Clapsaddle in Hardin County Common Pleas Court.

Judge Steve Christopher started by apologizing to both Clapsaddle and to the victim, who was present in the court.

He then announced that it was disclosed that Clapsaddle’s defense attorney Terry Hord had taken on work in the Hancock County Prosecutor’s office, and after consulting with the Ohio Supreme Disciplinary Council, the situation did create a conflict of interest.

Hord submitted a notice of withdrawal from Clapsaddle’s defense team, and the documents were filed Thursday morning.

Judge Christopher noted that in order to remove any taint of ethical misconduct that could be used in the appellate process, the best thing to do was reschedule sentencing.

Assistant Prosecutor Shibone Ward objected to the continuance, because the victim in the case deserves a speedy resolution to the case, but she noted she understands and appreciates the Court’s position.

Defense attorney Rocky Ratliffe told the Court that he was always going to be the lone attorney representing Clpasadle at sentencing, but also accepted the Court’s position.

Judge Christopher then directly apologized to both Clapsaddle and then the victim before recessing Court.

Clapsaddle will now be sentenced on Monday October 7.

The former Kenton school teacher was convicted on one count each of rape, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, and kidnapping following a four-day jury trial in late June.