Bribery Scandal

The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services reports 75% of the refugees in the state have settled in Cleveland and Columbus in the last year; Gov. Mike DeWine is downplaying his and his administration's involvement in the nuclear bailout bill House Bill 6; A new COVID-19 booster vaccine is being developed targeting the new dominant subvariant and doctors say those eligible shouldn't wait ... and more stories.

The texts were between former FirstEnergy executives who were fired after the company conducted an internal investigation into the federal charges in the largest bribery scandal in Ohio history; Akron Metro RTA is providing free fares for all passengers through Aug. 20; Mahoning Valley's school buses will continue running despite driver shortages affecting all districts statewide and nationwide ... and more stories.

Ohio reported nearly 5,400 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, nearly double the number of cases just four days ago; MetroHealth announced Thursday it will require employees to be fully vaccinated by October 30 or face termination; two Ohio House Democrats asked the state watchdog Thursday to investigate the involvement of several DeWine administration officials and others in a $60 million bribery scheme alleged by federal prosecutors; and more stories.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost says this action was necessary to protect Sam Randazzo's property for a pending civil suit.

In a historic vote, the Ohio House has removed a former Speaker who was re-elected to his seat last fall, after he was arrested in what's considered the largest bribery case ever in Ohio government.

It’s been almost a year since former Speaker Larry Householder was indicted on federal bribery and racketeering charges then was removed by the Ohio House from his leadership position. But he is still a member there, after being re-elected in November. Now, both Republicans and Democrats are making efforts to oust him from office.

The utility's report says the transactions date as far back as 10 years ago.

Here are your morning headlines for Friday, August 7:DeWine tests negative for the coronavirusTrump blasts Biden’s faith during Ohio visitFormer United…

Here are your morning headlines for Friday, July 24:DeWine pivots, calls for nuclear bailout repealStatewide mask mandate takes effect as virus cases hit…