On Thursday, February 13, 2025, Newsweek reported that Judge Timothy Grendell of the Geauga County Common Pleas Court is seeking to retain his position amid allegations of misconduct, including blocking a mother from administering COVID-19 tests to her children. The Ohio Supreme Court heard oral arguments regarding the case on Wednesday.
Grendell is facing potential suspension following recommendations from the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct, which suggested an 18-month suspension without pay, though six months could be stayed if he avoids further misconduct. The board’s recommendation stems from a complaint filed in 2022 by Joseph Caliguiri, the disciplinary counsel for the Ohio Supreme Court.
The complaint outlines incidents from a custody case where Grendell allegedly prevented the parents from conducting COVID-19 tests on their children. In one instance, a child was hospitalized due to shortness of breath, and after a doctor ordered a test, Grendell reportedly threatened to hold the mother in contempt of court for seeking the test.
As a result of these actions, the mother has not been reunited with her children, and no further hearings have been scheduled in her case. Grendell has also been noted for his dismissive comments regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, reportedly labeling it a “panic-demic” in court on several occasions.
In addition to the COVID-19-related allegations, Grendell faces accusations of misconduct from 2020, where he allegedly forced two brothers, aged 13 and 15, to spend time with their estranged father. When the children declined, they were held in juvenile detention under maximum restrictions for three days, during which they were separated and not allowed to contact their mother.
Further allegations include threats made by Grendell against county law enforcement officials and conflicts with the county auditor.
Tim Grendell, who is 71 years old, is unable to seek another term due to age restrictions in Ohio. His current judicial term is set to expire in February 2027. Grendell previously served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2001 to 2005 and in the state Senate from 2005 to 2011. He was appointed to his current judicial position in 2011 by former Ohio Governor John Kasich.
During the oral arguments, Grendell’s attorney, Stephen W. Funk, remarked on the conflicting guidance courts received during the COVID-19 crisis. In contrast, Caliguiri emphasized the need to maintain public trust in the judiciary’s impartiality and integrity. The Ohio Supreme Court has taken the case under advisement and will render a decision in due course.
Source: Newsweek
