A federal jury in Akron, Ohio, declared itself deadlocked on Tuesday regarding the fate of two former executives from FirstEnergy Corp. The trial centered on allegations of bribery within the largest public corruption scandal ever recorded in Ohio history.

Impasse Reached in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

Charges Against Former Executives

Former CEO Chuck Jones and ex-senior vice president Michael Dowling faced felony charges including corruption, conspiracy, and aggravated theft. Prosecutors alleged they were responsible for a $4.3 million payment made to the individual slated to become the next chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

The defense maintained that the payment was a legitimate, above-board legal settlement for services rendered to the Akron-based power company. The judge indicated she will review a motion for a mistrial at a later date.

The Core Allegations

Prosecutors argued that Jones and Dowling bribed Sam Randazzo, then-incoming PUCO chair, to secure favorable regulatory and legislative treatment. This included support for House Bill 6, legislation that provided a $1 billion bailout for nuclear plants affiliated with FirstEnergy.

The defense strongly countered this narrative, characterizing Randazzo as a “con man” and “a thief” who alone was responsible for misusing the company’s funds. Conversely, prosecutors asserted that Jones and Dowling were experienced executives fully aware of their actions.

Context of the Massive Corruption Scheme

FirstEnergy's Admission and Other Convictions

In 2021, FirstEnergy entered a non-prosecution agreement, admitting it financed a $60 million scheme. This scheme involved former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder electing allies, seizing power, passing the bailout bill, and then funding a campaign to defend it against a citizen referendum.

Householder was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2023 for orchestrating the racketeering operation. Additionally, lobbyist and former Ohio Republican Party Chair Matt Borges received a five-year sentence.

Other Parties Involved

Two political operatives who were initially charged have since pleaded guilty. A dark money organization also admitted in court to acting as the financial conduit for the illicit cash transfers.

Tragically, Sam Randazzo and another lobbyist facing criminal charges in connection with the case both died by suicide.

Key Testimony and Communications

U.S. Senator Jon Husted, former Ohio lieutenant governor, was a high-profile witness during the six-week trial. He confirmed his presence at a pivotal December 18, 2018, dinner involving then-Gov.-elect Mike DeWine, Jones, Dowling, and Josh Rubin.

Rubin, who served as both a FirstEnergy lobbyist and an advisor to the governor’s campaign, reportedly advised the executives earlier that day on lobbying DeWine regarding the PUCO chair selection. Text messages revealed Rubin cautioned them against mentioning their subsequent meeting with Randazzo at his home.

Evidence of the Transaction

Later that day, Randazzo texted Dowling a precise list of figures totaling $4,333,333 for the years 2019 through 2024. Dowling responded, “Got it, Sam,” and thanked him for his hospitality.

The following day, Jones texted Randazzo, promising the payment would be “paid in full, no discount” that year. Jones added a veiled threat: “Don’t forget about us or Hurricane Chuck may show up on your doorstep!” Randazzo replied, assuring them he would open any door needed and asked how they wished to structure the invoices.