It was a year of subpoenas, search warrants, depositions and whispers. Hastings called it a "witch hunt," and blamed the "established political structure" when indicted last July. The extensive investigation that resulted, led by a special prosecutor from the Ohio auditor's office, compiled volumes of investigatory files but, in the end, not convincing evidence of a crime. Hastings called his acquittal "a victory for the little guy" while adding he expects his opponents will simply change their tactics. He suggests discussion about moving local government to a system with a city manager and other professional administrators to reduce local political intrigue.

Source: ABC News March 04, 2017 12:40 UTC