Jury Impasse in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial

Jurors in Akron, Ohio, informed the court on Friday that they could not reach a unanimous verdict in the corruption trial of two former FirstEnergy Corp. executives. The case centers on allegations involving a $60 million bribery scheme within the state.

Summit County Common Pleas Judge Susan Baker Ross subsequently instructed the jury to continue deliberations in an attempt to reach a decision. The defendants, former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones and ex-Senior Vice President Michael Dowling, were present in the courtroom during the hearing on Monday, March 30, 2026.

Charges and Allegations

Jones and Dowling faced multiple felony charges, including corruption, bribery, conspiracy, and aggravated theft. Prosecutors maintained that the executives paid $4.3 million directly to the individual slated to become the next chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

The core of the prosecution's argument was that this payment served as a bribe to secure favorable legislative and regulatory actions from Sam Randazzo, the future PUCO chair. Conversely, the defense team argued that the substantial payment was legitimate and constituted an above-board legal settlement.

Judge Considers Next Steps

Following the jury's declaration of an impasse, Judge Baker Ross indicated that she would take time to consider a formal motion for a mistrial at a later date. The proceedings have highlighted the extensive fallout from the broader energy scandal.

Context of the $60 Million Scheme

This trial is connected to a larger $60 million scheme that FirstEnergy admitted underwriting through a non-prosecution agreement in 2021. The company acknowledged its role in underwriting the massive operation.

The scheme involved former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder electing allies and securing power to pass a controversial bailout bill. Householder was subsequently sentenced to 20 years in prison for racketeering in 2023 for orchestrating the entire operation.

Other Convictions and Outcomes

Several other individuals connected to the bribery plot have faced legal consequences. Lobbyist and former Ohio Republican Party Chair Matt Borges received a five-year prison sentence for his involvement.

Additionally, two political operatives who were initially charged entered guilty pleas. A dark money organization also admitted in court to acting as a financial conduit for the illicit cash flow.

Tragically, Sam Randazzo and a different lobbyist who were facing criminal charges in connection with the case both died by suicide.