CASA for Kids Executive Director Mary Ruth Shumway pleaded not guilty May 11 to misdemeanor charges stemming from a letter in which she allegedly endorsed a candidate for Geauga County Juvenile/Probate Court judge.
CASA for Kids Executive Director Mary Ruth Shumway pleaded not guilty May 11 to misdemeanor charges stemming from a letter in which she allegedly endorsed a candidate for Geauga County Juvenile/Probate Court judge.
Shumway is charged with violations involving newsletters of political subdivisions, a first-degree misdemeanor, and dereliction of duty, a second-degree misdemeanor.
The first charge carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, while the second is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $750 fine, Chardon Municipal Court Judge Terri Stupica said during the arraignment hearing.
Stupica also set a personal recognizance bond.
The charges stem from allegations that Shumway sent a letter to approximately 62 CASA volunteers discussing the three candidates in the May Republican primary for juvenile and probate court judge. The letter concluded that only Magistrate Abbey King Mueller was qualified for the position.
The letter was written on CASA letterhead and signed by Shumway in her role as executive director. Authorities allege it was sent during work hours.
In addition to supporting King Mueller, the letter included statements regarding candidate Stephanie Anderson that Anderson has described as untrue and misrepresentations.
Shumway was temporarily suspended from her position earlier this year pending an internal court investigation. The suspension remained in effect until May 6.
