Ohio Organized Crime Task Force Seizes Cocaine, Approximately $300,000 Following Traffic Stops

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine, Montgomery County Sheriff Phil Plummer, Warren County Sheriff Larry Sims, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Acting Special Agent in Charge William Hayes announced today that an ongoing investigation has led to the seizure of more than a quarter of a million dollars and nearly 50 pounds of cocaine.

Authorities with the Bulk Cash Smuggling Task Force, which is part of the Ohio Attorney General's Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission, confiscated the majority of the evidence following two separate, but related traffic stops in Montgomery County last week.

Open Meetings Act Overview

A general discussion of Ohio's Open Meetings Act, which mandates that a "public body" conducts its official business in meetings open to the public, including discussion on how to determine who is a "public body" subject to the Act, and what obligations the Act imposes on a public body.

Remedies for Violations of Ohio's Sunshine Laws

Known as "self-help" laws, both the Public Records Act and the Open Meetings Act provide for any person to file a lawsuit to enforce the Sunshine Laws if that person believes either Act was violated. This presentation details the legal remedies allowable under Ohio's Sunshine Laws.

Confidential Law Enforcement Investigatory Records (CLEIRs)

A closer look at what types of "law enforcement" records may be exempted from disclosure under the Public Records Act, how long that exemption may apply, and what types of public offices are able to claim this exemption.

Public Records 101

Understanding the Public Records Act begins with first understanding the two seemingly basic, yet sometimes complicated terms "public record" and "public office".

Executive Sessions to Consult With Legal Counsel

An overview of when, under the Open Meetings Act, a public body may enter into an executive session for the purpose of meeting with its legal counsel, and what topics the public body may discuss with its legal counsel during that executive session.

How to Make a Public Records Request

An overview of public records requesters' rights and public offices' obligations under the Public Records Act, including practical tips for making a proper public records request.