Jurors in Akron, Ohio, informed the court on Tuesday that they were unable to reach a unanimous verdict in the high-profile corruption trial involving two former executives of FirstEnergy Corp. The case centered on their alleged involvement in a significant $60 million bribery operation within the state.

Impasse Reached in Akron Corruption Trial

Defendants and Charges

The jury reached an impasse in the trial of former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones and former Senior Vice President Michael Dowling. Both men face serious charges including felony corruption, bribery, conspiracy, and aggravated theft.

The core accusation involves the payment of $4.3 million to the individual who was set to become the state’s top utility regulator. Summit County Common Pleas Judge Susan Baker Ross instructed the jury to continue deliberations in an effort to reach a consensus.

Prosecution and Defense Arguments

Prosecutors asserted that Jones and Dowling bribed Sam Randazzo, the future chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). This payment was allegedly made in exchange for crucial legislative and regulatory support. This support notably included championing House Bill 6, which provided a $1 billion bailout for nuclear plants affiliated with FirstEnergy.

Conversely, the defense maintained that the $4.3 million payment was a legitimate, above-board legal settlement for services Randazzo rendered to the Akron-based energy company. Defense attorneys characterized Randazzo as a “thief” and “a con man,” arguing he was solely responsible for any misuse of FirstEnergy funds.

Context of the $60 Million Scheme

FirstEnergy had previously admitted to funding the broader $60 million scheme. This scheme involved former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder electing allies and securing power to pass the controversial bailout bill. The company also allegedly ran a campaign to defend the bill against a citizen referendum.

Tragically, Randazzo and another lobbyist facing criminal charges in connection with the case both died by suicide. Prosecutors contended that Jones and Dowling, being experienced executives, fully understood their actions.

Key Testimony and Communications

The six-week trial featured testimony from U.S. Senator Jon Husted, a former Ohio lieutenant governor. Husted confirmed his presence at a pivotal dinner on December 18, 2018.

This dinner included then-Gov.-elect Mike DeWine, Jones, Dowling, and Josh Rubin, who acted as both a campaign advisor and a FirstEnergy lobbyist. Text messages presented in court showed Rubin advising the executives earlier that day on lobbying DeWine regarding the PUCO chair selection.

Rubin cautioned them against mentioning their subsequent meeting with Randazzo at his home. Later that day, Randazzo texted Dowling a precise figure: “Total 4,333,333.” Dowling responded, “Got it, Sam.”

The following day, Jones texted Randazzo, stating, “We’re going to get this handled this year, paid in full, no discount.” He added a veiled threat: “Don’t forget about us or Hurricane Chuck may show up on your doorstep!” Randazzo replied, inviting them back and asking how they wished to structure the invoices.

Next Steps for the Case

Following the jury's declaration of an impasse, Judge Baker Ross stated she would assess a motion for a mistrial at a subsequent date. The hearing where this was discussed took place in Akron, Ohio, on Monday, March 30, 2026.