Gerald Dixon, a longtime Whitehall City Council member and Democrat, was sworn in for a second term on Tuesday, just hours after being released from custody on his own recognizance following his arrest on child sexual abuse charges.
Dixon, 64, denies the allegations.
Dixon, who has served on Whitehall’s council since 1980, won reelection to the nonpartisan Ward 1 seat in November with nearly 70 percent of the vote.
Despite his arrest, he appeared at the swearing-in ceremony as scheduled.
“The people elected me, and I have not been brought before a jury of my peers, so here I am,” Dixon told reporters, adding he was exhausted after spending a night in jail, according to WOSU.
Whitehall police arrested Dixon Monday evening following a multi-year investigation spanning Ohio, New York and Michigan.
Police Chief Mike Crispen said Dixon allegedly groomed at least eight juveniles for sexual exploitation dating back to 1996.
Some victims were reportedly too traumatized to provide complete statements, and authorities expect additional victims may come forward.
Dixon faces felony charges including gross sexual imposition and compelling prostitution, with more charges possible as the investigation continues.
During a search of Dixon’s home, officers discovered electronic devices containing explicit material, writings and drawings depicting young children. According to The Columbus Dispatch, Crispen described the residence as a “hoarder house.”
The case has raised questions about Dixon’s continued role on the council. Council President Thomas Potter said Dixon’s attendance at the ceremony was not unexpected.
Members are exploring legal avenues for removal under city code, which allows expulsion for serious offenses such as gross misconduct, malfeasance or crimes involving moral turpitude.
City Attorney Brad Nicodemus noted that “gross misconduct” is defined as behavior that shocks the conscience.
Franklin County Municipal Court Judge Eileen Paley expressed frustration over the limited details available during the bond hearing.
She released Dixon without a cash bond, citing his public office and incomplete case information. As a condition of release, Dixon must avoid contact with juveniles.
Prosecutors noted that the grand jury only received the materials shortly before the hearing, with many complaints filed under seal, ABC 6 reports.
Dixon, who previously criticized Whitehall Mayor Michael Bivens and supported the Fraternal Order of Police in disputes with the city, denied knowledge of the alleged victims’ identities and suggested political motives could be involved.
Outside politics, Dixon pursued acting in New York and Hollywood and remains a member of the Screen Actors Guild.
His council biography highlights his civic engagement, community involvement, and hobbies, including painting, gardening and writing.
Authorities continue to investigate, noting that the arrest is part of a larger, decades-long inquiry.
Police stress that more victims may come forward. Meanwhile, the Whitehall City Council faces an unprecedented scenario, balancing legal procedures with local governance and public scrutiny.
Officials have indicated that efforts to remove Dixon from office may include citizen-led initiatives or formal council action under city code.
The unfolding case highlights tensions between electoral outcomes, due process, and public accountability, as local leaders and residents grapple with serious allegations against an elected official.
