The corruption case against Scioto County Commissioner Bryan Davis is moving forward. Davis, who is currently on voluntary paid leave following a sweeping indictment, will return to Scioto County Common Pleas Court on Tuesday, October 21 for a pre-trial hearing. The session is scheduled in Judge Howard Harcha’s courtroom.
Defense Motions Filed
Since his indictment, Davis’s attorney, Matthew O’Leary, has filed several motions, including:
- Bill of Particulars: Asking the special prosecutor to lay out in detail the specific conduct and allegations that make up the charges in the indictment.
- Request for Discovery: Asking for access to evidence in the state’s possession, including:
- Any written, recorded, or oral statements made by Davis or his co-defendant, Lori Davis
- Testimony given before the grand jury
- Any sound recordings or transcriptions tied to the case
- Prior criminal records of Davis, Lori Davis, or potential witnesses
- Copies of documents, photos, or objects that could be used as evidence
- Reports from scientific tests or examinations conducted during the investigation
- A list of witnesses the state plans to call at trial, including their criminal histories if applicable
- Any evidence favorable to Davis that might lessen guilt or punishment
These filings are standard defense moves designed to clarify the charges and prepare for trial.
The Bigger Picture
Davis faces felony charges including:
- Engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity
- Theft in office (2 counts)
- Aggravated theft
- Money laundering
His wife, Lori Davis, faces her own charges of money laundering, tampering with evidence, and receiving stolen property.
Prosecutors allege the couple were the unnamed “John and Jane Doe” co-conspirators in the corruption scheme linked to former Economic Development Director Robert Horton.
What’s Next
- Oct. 21: Pre-trial hearing in Judge Harcha’s courtroom.
- Defense motions will be reviewed as both sides prepare their cases.
- Davis remains on voluntary paid leave, a provisional suspension he will have to repay if convicted.
SCDN will continue tracking every step of this case as it unfolds in court.