COLUMBUS — A special audit released Thursday by the Auditor of State’s office has detailed the investigation into former Salt Creek Township Trustee James Fox, who admitted to using township resources for personal gain.
The report follows a 2024 investigation by the Auditor’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) into allegations that Fox used a township-owned truck to haul gravel to a family member’s residence.
Pleas and Restitution
Fox was originally indicted in Pickaway County Common Pleas Court in June 2025. In September 2025, he entered a guilty plea to a misdemeanor count of soliciting or accepting improper compensation.
As part of a negotiated plea agreement, Fox was required to:
- Resign from his position as Salt Creek Township Trustee.
- Pay Restitution totaling $865, which included $40 repaid directly to the township and $825 to cover audit costs.
- Pay a Fine of $1,000.
- Accept a Ban from any public employment in the State of Ohio for a period of seven years.
The special audit report issued this week confirms a “finding for recovery” that matches the court-ordered restitution, which has already been repaid in full.
SIU Oversight
The investigation began in March 2024 after the SIU received a tip regarding the misuse of the township vehicle and gravel. Since 2019, the SIU has assisted in 156 convictions, resulting in over $16.4 million in restitution across the state.
The Auditor’s office encourages residents to report suspected fraud or misuse of public funds. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the SIU fraud hotline at 866-FRAUD-OH.
