On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Christopher Rhea filed a petition in the Supreme Court of Ohio seeking an emergency writ of mandamus and procedendo, along with a motion to compel the production of evidence. Rhea, identifying himself as an ex-employee, whistleblower, and victim, is proceeding pro se in the case, designated 26-0145.
Rhea’s petition names several respondents, including Judge Mallory, Judge Steven Mowery, Judge Howard Harcha III, Judges Abele, Hess, Wilkin, and Smith (4th District), Prosecutors John Haas and Chris Gerard, and Arrowhead Sidney and Kimberly Potter.
The petition alleges racial terror and retaliation, asserting violations under 42 U.S.C. §§ 1981-1986 and 42 U.S.C. § 1983. Rhea claims he is homeless and in hiding due to a void trespass order. He contends that if he were white, he would not be facing homelessness.
Rhea is seeking the production of physical evidence from dockets in the 4th District Court of Appeals (Case No. 24CA4173) and the Scioto County Common Pleas (Case No. 26CIH027), including a USB drive with video evidence and ex-employer emails.
The filing states that on May 23, 2025, the OCRC notified Rhea and his ex-employer of an active investigation, followed by a retaliatory eviction notice on May 28, 2025. Rhea also alleges a medical crisis in court on January 14, 2026, which was allegedly ignored by Prosecutor Chris Gerard and the Court.
Rhea is requesting immediate reinstatement to his residence, the vacation of the trespass order and eviction, compensatory damages of $30,000, and punitive damages. He has also filed an affidavit of indigency, requesting waiver of filing fees and security deposits.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
