A trial in Hamilton County Criminal Court could be in store for East Ridge Mayor Mike Steele if a judge determines that the ouster petition filed against him has merit.
Mr. Steele’s attorney Dee Hobbs, however, has filed a motion to dismiss the case.
“I’m confident Mr. Steele’s position will be validated,” Mr. Hobbs said Monday after a hearing in which Hamilton County Criminal Judge Don Poole indicated he would make his decision on whether to dismiss the case by the end of March.
Mr. Hobbs’ position was bolstered by Hamilton County District Attorney Bill Cox in mid-December when he informed disgruntled East Ridge residents that his office would have no part in helping further their cause.
“We cannot ethically participate in a prosecution that is not warranted,” Mr. Cox said at the December court hearing.
Mr. Cox noted that ouster petitions, according to state law, are for the “corrupt” who are engaging in illegal activity. He said his office has found no evidence that Mr. Steele has ever broken any law in his capacity as East Ridge mayor.
If Judge Poole decides that the ouster petition has legal teeth, a bench trial will take place March 31.
Several East Ridge residents signed an ouster petition in late September, alleging that Mr. Steele has usurped powers beyond those given to him in the City Charter, including taking a dedicated phone line, spending city money and hiring employees.
East Ridge resident Jackie Fulks told Judge Poole in December that the Hamilton County district attorney had a “duty” to represent her and others as they seek to oust Mr. Steele.
Mr. Hobbs said at the time that there are better ways to go about getting rid of an elected official if you don’t like him.
“That’s what a recall is for,” Mr. Hobbs said.
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